The province of Maniema, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has taken a major step forward with the official validation of its provincial agroecology strategy.
This breakthrough was achieved during a workshop organised by the Congo Basin Conservation Society (CBCS-Network) in the Saint Joseph hall on Monday 22 September 2025.
The aim of the workshop was to mobilise all stakeholders around a participatory and inclusive approach in order to define the main strategic guidelines for the development of agroecology in Maniema, a province historically known as the « breadbasket of the DRC ».
This initiative is part of a concerted response to local environmental issues, including the fight against climate change, the preservation of forests outside protected areas, and the conservation of biodiversity. It also aims to promote a transition to agroecology and strengthen food sovereignty as a lever for resilience and adaptation.
In his speech, the CBCS-Network focal point Mutshanga Kalume Raphaël emphasised that the agroecological approach is fundamentally inclusive and transformative. It is based on the protection of biodiversity, sustainable soil and water management, but also on the empowerment of women, the involvement of young people and the promotion of the traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples.
He also highlighted the importance of preserving traditional and indigenous farm seeds, organising local and regional markets, and combating bush fires. « We are convinced that the future of agriculture in the DRC must be shaped with the participation of all, while respecting the environment and the rights of local communities, » he concluded.
In his closing speech, the provincial Minister of the Environment Assaini Somwe urged all stakeholders to work rigorously and constructively to build a strong, ambitious and, above all, operational strategy for the well-being of the people of Maniema.
« What we have just validated here is not an end in itself, but the beginning of an ambitious process. It is now up to us, individually and collectively, to translate this strategy into concrete actions on the ground, for the benefit of our farmers, our families and future generations, » he said.
He also encouraged continued mobilisation,strengthened synergies and collaboration between all stakeholders to make Maniema a model of agroecology in the DRC and beyond. He recalled that the province has considerable natural resources, both above and below ground, and that it must adopt and promote this approach to ensure sustainable, inclusive and resilient agricultural development.
This activity is part of the project « Supporting civil society movements to influence policies in favour of agroecology and reduce pressure on forests in the DRC », implemented by CBCS-Network with financial support from PORTICUS.
Editorial team
