CAFEC LANDSCAPE 9: MARINGA-LOPORI-WAMBA FOREST LANDSCAPE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO CAFEC ANNUAL REPORT: OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018
Project/Sub-Project No. Central African Forest Ecosystems Conservation – CAFEC Agreement Cooperative Agreement No. AID-660-A-13-00009 Activity Title Maringa-Lopori-Wamba Forest Landscape Program/LS 9 Reporting Period October 1, 2017 – September 29, 2018 Date submitted October 30, 2018 Report completed and Cléo Mashini Mwatha , Acting Chief of Party; Email: submitted by [email protected] Organization African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) Alternate contact Charly Facheux, Vice President Policy, Strategy and West and central Africa; Email: [email protected] Organization and contact African Wildlife Foundation; Tel: +1 202 939 3333
During the last reporting period under review for the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Central Africa Forest Ecosystems Conservation (CAFEC) program, AWF made landscape wide progress to improve the sustainable management and conservation of natural resources in the Maringa-Lopori-Wamba (MLW) forest landscape overall, and in particular, the Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve (RFLY) and the Iyondji Community Bonobo Reserve (ICBR). This report provides details on implemented activities and results achieved during the performance period of October 1, 2017 to September 29, 2018.
USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
STRATEGY 1: STRENGTHEN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LAND USE MANAGEMENT PLANS Key Result 1.1 Community Forest Concessions with management rules and principles approved
Conduct information sharing sessions in each groupements surrounding the 7 Community Forests concessions (CFCL) on operational requirements and management procedures
AWF assisted local communities in the process of acquiring forest concessions. This was achieved through official assignment by the governor provincial order for two forest blocks, respectively 53897 hectares in the territory of Befale and 111131 hectares in the territory of Ikela. These two blocks represent seven forest concessions, belonging to the local communities of Lotulo, Ilima, Bolima and Lomako-Efeke-Feke (situated in the Groupement of Likunduamba, Secteur of Duale, Befale territory) and of the local communities of Yalokembe, Yongoli and Yaseka (Mpangu Groupement, Loile sector, Ikela territory).
However, the majority of the local population is not aware of the content of the provincial order, nor well informed about two other important texts related to community forest concessions (Decree 014/018 of the 02nd August 2014 laying down modalities for attributions of CFCL and Order 025 / CAB / MIN / ECN-DD / CJ / 00 / RBM / 2016 of the 09th February 2016 on the specific provision related to the management and operation of the CFCL). To address this problem, AWF organized with the World Resource Institute (WRI) a first multi-stakeholder workshop on community forestry in Boende, capital of the Tshuapa province. Emphasis was placed on the clarification of the Governor’s order assigning local communities’ forest concessions, the Decree-Law No. 014/018 and Ministerial Order No. 025/CAB/MIN/ECN-DD/CJ/00/RBM/2016 of February 09, 2016. The agenda was on clarifying CFCL ownership, the link with local development, the role of actors and the difference between protected areas and CFCL.
The various tools related to these CFCLs were made available to the communities (cfr. MOV 1.1.1. Report sharing sessions in each groupement surrounding the 7 Community Forests concessions (CFCL).
At the local level, a core group of informants was formed to disseminate information about the CFCL process, and the messaging focused on the forest code in Articles 22, 34-36, 89, 111-113 that refer to the provisions of the Forest Code that sets out community forestry which were used as basic texts in information sharing.
A total of 227 people from the 7 local communities involved have been sensitized.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018
Update socioeconomic data for at least 4 community forests concessions (CFCL)
In order to comply with the requirements of the law for the development of simple management plans for the CFCL, multi-resource inventories (fauna, flora, NTFPs and others) and socioeconomic surveys have been carried out. A socioeconomic survey of a sample of 517 households (Bolima: 246 households, Lotulo: 124 households, Ilima: 147 households (Likunduamba Group) was conducted on demographic data and socio-cultural and development needs.
According to this survey, the Likunduamba groupement is constituted of 4,176 individuals, of which 2,189 men and 1,987 women, with an average of 11 persons per household across 63 clans (22 clans in the Bolima village, 21 clans for Lotulo and 20 clans in Ilima) (2017 Likunduamba groupement administrative census).
The results of this survey reveal problems of access to health care, to drinking water and education, despite the existence of the Ilima School built by AWF.
The main household activities is agriculture (more than 70% of the population cultivates cassava and maize as their main crops) and hunting (to supply animal protein, since livestock breeding remains traditional with a focus on poultry and small ruminants).
With respect to forest resources, the survey reveals that 35% of respondents believe that the non-timber forest product (NTFP) are resources that can be economically beneficial for the groupement, 26% estimate that it is only wood, 28% think about the combined exploitation of animal resources as part of NTFPs. (cfr MOV1.1.2. Socioeconomic Study Report).
Conduct a multi-resource inventory of at least 4 CFCL
A multi-resource inventory makes the state of specific biodiversity of a given area. As part of the project, a multi-resource inventory was carried out in the Likuduamba community zone. Which consisted of an inventory of the non-timber forest products that are collected in the area, and another inventory on flora and finally on terrestrial fauna. This multi- resource inventory is of paramount importance in the community development process. It gives an idea of the resources available and used, as well as local management modes. This facilitates management and planning guidelines to reduce negative impacts and allowing those resources to continue to exist.
Three types of inventories were made: non-timber forest products, Flaura and Fauna (Cfr MOV1.1.3 Multi-resource inventory Report).
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 a) Inventory of non-timber forest products
During the period, AWF has developed several activities related to the inventory of the non- timber forest products within 4 forest concessions of local communities of Likunduamba along with the main goal to assess the potential of the non-timber forest products in this groupement. In order to achieve this objective, AWF conducted the interviews, sensitizations, and inquiries through households in the villages of Ilima, Bolima and Lotulo belonging to the Likunduamba groupement. The approach compelled AWF to classify the non-timber forest products according to their utilization. The first one being, the non-timber forest products of food, where 30 species have been identified including: vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, nuts representing 26%. It was confirmed by the local communities interviewed that the non-timber forest products exploitation is ranked among the most important alternative activity of householder’s self-livelihood. The second one is packing plants and constructions which represent 37% of plants species exploited in the Likunduamba groupement. The third one is medicinal plant for healthcare basically exploited and used by households gather into 9 families (with almost a total of 20% of non-timber forest products inventoried). The fourth one is wildlife generally this type of non-timber forest products comes from mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and invertebrates. AWF also initiated an enquiry on the operator’s profile of non-timber forest products and the marital status of the heads of the households in the villages. The enquiry outcomes displayed that 73, 9 % of heads of households is constituted by men and 26, 1 % is constituted by women. Obviously, the predominance of married head households was evaluated at 90, 8 %, and single heads households and widowers represent a total of 6, 8%. The age of heads of householders interviewed was from 25 to 45 year-old, which means that the youngest be 44, 6%, against 55, 5% of elders. Regarding the education level of operators, the table below provides data collected from the enquiry activity realized in each village (Ilima, Lotulo and Bolima).
Villages Education level Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total N % N % N % N % Never been to school 8 20,5% 1 3,3% 3 6,0% 12 10,1% Primary school 14 35,9% 7 23,3% 16 32,0% 37 31,1% Bachelor study 17 43,6% 22 73,3% 31 62,0% 70 58,8% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
To summarize, the enquiry activity reveals a relevant number of operators in natural areas enquired, corresponding to 10, 1% which are uneducated; 31, 1 % who have a primary level of education, 58,8% who have a bachelor degree. The number of households interviewed was between 1 and 29 members with an average of 10 members per each household. The
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 households whose the number of members was lower or equal to 10%, constituted 44,3% of the sample, against 55,7% who had more than 10 members. It is worth mentioning that AWF has realized an activity on the harvesting of non-timber forest products, which enabled to figure out mainly the spots or areas where the households of Likunduamba withdraws their non-timber forest products within forest concessions of local communities.
The table below shows the type of spot exploited by households in the 3 villages.
Villages Types of spot operated Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total N % N % N % N % Primary forest 11 28,2% 14 46,7% 16 32,0% 41 34,5% Secondary forest 17 43,6% 9 30,0% 26 52,0% 52 43,7% Swamp forest 11 28,2% 7 23,3% 8 16,0% 26 21,8% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
With regard to the householder’s allocation according to the area type for harvesting of non- timber forest products, the analysis shows an important gap according to the growth of vegetable. In fact, a straightforward insight of the table above demonstrates that secondary forest holds 43, 7%. The majority of peasants exploits secondary and primary vegetables. This achievement has been made related to the endogenous knowledge on non-timber forest products in order to identify the climate factors experienced by the Likunduamba groupement and its 3 villages. Therefore, it was found that the local communities do have sufficient knowledge of ecological factors related to the climate. The table below indicates the households’ allocation according to the exploiting factors of non-timber forest products. Abundance period Villages collection of non-timber Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total forest products N % N % N % N % Dry season 9 23,1% 19 63,3% 24 48,0% 52 43,7% Rainy season 30 76,9% 11 36,7% 26 52,0% 67 56,3% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
Relying on the data provided in the table above, it’s demonstrates that the local communities of Likunduamba exploit more the non-timber forest products during rainy season evaluated at 56, 3%. In the same background, AWF has undertaken a crucial step of interviews to figure out and identify different local organizations (local nonprofit organization, association, group) adhered by operators of Likunduamba. Definitely, it was found that 8 out of 10 operators inquired, do not belong to any local organization, association or group against, 10, 1% of respondents belong to a local organization.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 As much as the non-timber forest products are accordingly exploited in Likunduamba, AWF has initiated a study to identify the factors of technical and operational choice on non-timber forest products exploitation. Thus, the factors below are identified, including the fluctuations observed related to the supply and demand, volatilities procurement, availability of basic necessities products leverage on the exploitation of natural spots of Likunduamba. Basically, inquire conducted reveals that the exploitation of non-timber forest products is regularly carried out (In other words 7 peasants out of 10). Relevant to point out that an average distance from the harvesting spots of each non-timber forest products is estimated at 8 km. Another success has been demonstrated about the access modalities to the spots of non- timber forest products exploitation. The activity enabled us to collect data on the features of non-timber forest products sector. According to data collected, it clearly demonstrates that peasants acquired certain mentoring on non-timber forest products exploitation. In this context 8 to 10 peasants have confirmed using non-timber forest products for foods and traditional needs such as healthcare. The table below provides several features related to the sector.
Features of non-timber forest Villages products sector Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total N % N % N % N % Mentoring Have not 3 7,7% 12 40,0% 1 2,0% 16 13,4% acquired benefited Initiated 36 92,3% 18 60,0% 49 98,0% 103 86,6% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100% Mentoring Use of non- 35 94,6% 15 55,6% 4 8,0% 54 47,4% should be timber forest required products for self-medication Law and 1 2,7% 1 3,7% 12 24,0% 14 12,3% tradition related to non- timber forest products exploitation Use of non- 1 2,7% 11 40,7% 34 68,0% 46 40,4% timber forest products applicable in foods behaviors Total 37 100 27 100% 50 100% 114 100% % Access 39 100 % 29 96,7% 50 100,0% 118 99,2% Modalities to the non- Free timber forest products
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Unauthorized 0 0,0% 1 3,3% 0 0,0% 1 0,8% to non-native Total 39 100 30 100% 50 100% 119 100% %
In the same period AWF has also attached interest in finding the real disposition of non- timber forest products in the 3 villages. Obviously, the inquiries conducted reveals that the non-timber forest products exploitation do not only sort out to the local production activities, but specially compensate other food sources as well as local community’s incomes subsistence. Globally, AWF has collected the following data on the non-timber forest products disposition exploited in the 3 villages: (i) Ilima for self-consumption: 2 (5,1%) persons interviewed, sale: 5 (12,8%) persons interviewed , both: 32 (82,1%) persons interviewed , total: 38 (100%) persons interviewed ; (ii) Lotula for self-consumption: 2 (6,7%) persons interviewed , sale: 2 (6,7%) persons interviewed , both: 26 (86%) persons interviewed , total: 29 (100%) persons interviewed ; (iii) Bolima for self-consumption: 6 (12%) persons interviewed , sale: 1 ( 2,0%) persons interviewed , both: 43(86%) persons interviewed, total: 49 (100%) persons interviewed. To summarize, the data for the 3 villages related to self-consumption: 10 (8, 4%), the data for the 3 villages related to the sale: 8(6, 7%), the data for the 3 villages related for both: 101 (84, 9%), with a total of: 116(100%).
To figure out the main motivations or reasons of the non-timber forest products exploitation constituted a huge interest in the inquiry process, thus AWF concentrated all efforts to collect data as described in the table below. Raisons related to the Villages choice of exploited areas Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total N % N % N % N % Appeal 11 28,2% 11 36,7% 12 24,0% 34 28,6% to non- Low operating timber cost forest product Consumption 14 35,9% 7 23,3% 17 34,0% 38 31,9% assured Easy access 3 7,7% 3 10,0% 6 12,0% 12 10,1% Permanent 11 28,2% 9 30,0% 15 30,0% 35 29,4% source of revenue Total 39 100,0% 30 100,0% 50 100,0% 119 100,0% Absolutely 24 61,5% 15 50,0% 22 44,0% 61 51,3% Raisons available in our raised environment Through the 6 15,4% 2 6,7% 3 6,0% 11 9,2% satisfaction I drawn after using To preserve 3 7,7% 2 6,7% 1 2,0% 6 5,0% my cultural identity By habit 6 15,4% 11 36,7% 24 48,0% 41 34,5% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018
In fact, the local communities of Likunduamba found pertinent to make respective choices in their natural environment for specific reasons such as the low cost of food as well as their forest which constitute the permanent source of revenue estimated at 31,9 %, 29,4% and 28,6%. Otherwise biological resources availability, etc. In this activity AWF went beyond interviewing local communities on the weekly frequency related to non-timber forest products harvest, this enabled us to collect the following data: Weekly frequency of Villages non-timber forest Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total products harvested N % N % N % N % Once a day 21 53,8% 6 20,0% 8 16,0% 35 29,4% Twice a day 4 10,3% 1 3,3% 13 26,0% 18 15,1% Three times a day 3 7,7% 12 40,0% 12 24,0% 27 22,7% More than three 11 28,2% 11 36,7% 17 34,0% 39 32,8% times a day Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
Basically the weekly frequency exploitation of non-timber forest products is variable and work out according to availability of non-timber forest product in each village. An insight into the table above demonstrates that close to 5 to 10 persons inquired exploit the non- timber forest product once a week, especially in the Ilima village, contrary to the local communities of Lotulo, Bolima which exploit three times even more during a week.
As much as the non-timber forest product is abundantly exploited by the local communities, they can possibly be exhausted, thus AWF has taken into account the impacts of valorization of non-timber forest products during the inquiry process. In this approach inquiry has been carried out to the households to explore deeply the efficacious measures for avoiding useful plants disappearing. Finally the following measures have been found that 44,5% harvest staggered in time and space; 14,3% agroforestry practice; 31,1% respect of point, negative and only levy; 10,1 nothing at all. To summarize, 4 out of 10 peasants practices, harvest staggered in time during the levy of non-timber forest products; 3 out of 10 operators preserves species through the negative point of plants. Ultimately, agroforestry practice (14, 3%) of wildlife plant was pointed out as one of the applicable measures to assure the sustainability of practice operating non-timber forest products in Likunduamba.
AWF has demonstrated the performance related to enquiries on the sources of energy used by the local communities of Likunduamba in order of knowing their energetic dependence. So the inquiries results carried out in the 3 villages reveal what is describe in the following table:
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Sources of energy Villages Ilima Lotulo Bolima Total N % N % N % N % Sources Solar 7 17,9% 6 20,0% 0 0,0% 13 10,9% of energy Woods energy 32 82,1% 24 80,0% 46 92,0% 102 85,7% Torch 0 0,0% 0 0,0% 4 8,0% 4 3,4% Total 39 100,0% 30 100,0% 50 100,0% 119 100,0% Used for Baking 33 84,6% 24 80,0% 50 100,0% 107 89,9% Light 6 15,4% 6 20,0% 0 0,0% 12 10,1% Total 39 100% 30 100% 50 100% 119 100%
Basically, wood energy is the most used for baking. However, utilization of charcoal is still unknown from the majority of households inquired, and 9 out of 10 peasants have confirmed. b) Inventory of flora
During the performance period, AWF has carried out an inventory of flora within the forest concessions of local communities with objective to draw up a list of flora species findable within the 4 forest concessions of local communities belonging to Likunduamba especially in the 3 villages (Ilima, Lotula and Bolima). Inventory features focused on sample intensity (269,5 hectares), property plan, execution of work in the field, data collection, etc. As a results of flora inventory: 126 species have been inventoried related to the mother tongue names, 47 species have commercial names, 126 species have scientific names, and each species belong to a specific family. The dominating species encountered across different concessions of Likunduamba are Fabaceae and Leguminosae. These species are the family of decotyledones plants belonging to Fabales. They are one of important family of flower plants and third after Orchidaceae and Asteraceae per number of species. In term of reproduction, the flora species of forest concessions of local communities in Likunduamba presents enormous potential related to floristic biodiversity. In term of the volume for a sample of 269, 5 hectares it was found that 50 trees present a required volume for exploitation. Related to the average volume of each class per hectare and species, Likunduamba forest dispose of trees for an exploitation however these trees are experiencing a huge disruption due to slash and burn agriculture considered as engine of deforestation. Regarding an estimated volume of all concessions the study reveals that Likuandamba forest dispose also of 7 species of trees ranked at class I. In order of commercial importance, the category I present economic potential including all forestry species of Ebenisterie and construction exploited in DRC as well as international level. This wood includes also technological values that constitute basic criteria of it classification.
c) Inventory of fauna
Another study has been carried out related to the inventory of fauna resources within the Likunduamba forest concession with objective to list and collect data on fauna resources within 4 territories, eventually to evaluate anthropogenic activities undertaken in the concessions. As the results obtain, a specific list of mammal inventoried in 4 forest
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 concessions indicates the allocation of fauna resources per order, family, species, french names, code. The species classified per order include the Primates, Artiodactyla, Cetartiodactyla, Carnivoras, Tubulidentanta, Rodentia. Classification according to family includes Cercopithecidae, Homidae, Bovidae, Suidae, Tragulidae, Felidae, Heperstidae, Viverridae, Mustelidae, Orycteropodidae, Maridae, Sciuridae, Hystricidae and Nesomydae. The study enabled to present a proportion of human activities expect mammals inventoried. There it was found the presence of Potamochères in forest concessions of local communities of Elenge-Fekefeke-Lomako, Bolima and Lotulo. The concession of Bolima present Atherurus africanus whilst concession of Elenge-Fekefeke-Lomako presents a particularity in term of bonobo. The presence of Cephalophus sylvicultor is abundant almost in 4 concessions. It was found that trap hunting occupied the second position and encountered with men the third position. Expect the anthropogenic activities, the concession of Elenge- Fekefeke-Lomako remains occupied. 15 households were inventoried which represent a total of 120 inhabitants that constitute the village of Tokoka that comprised a community called “kitawaliste”. The concession of Ilima contains mixed forest of open-wood which ranked at first position with 27%, and the concession of Bolima contains a mixed forest of close-wood; Marantacées forests is ranked at third position with 7,4%. In conclusion there is no relevant difference in terms of fauna for the 4 forest concessions of local communities. However, the concession of Elenge-Fekefeke-Lomako presents a particularity and a huge interest for the conservation of bonobo by the local communities. In general, the trend of spatial distribution presents also a specific wealth for 4 forest concessions of local communities.
Building capacity and local governance
Accordingly, to the program objectives, AWF has remarkably demonstrated the progress related to building capacity of local community forestry and local governance committee’s issues within the MLW landscape. In this approach, AWF has organized training on capacity building to the benefit of local development committees related to the good management of forest concessions of local communities. For this period 3 villages belonging to the groupement of Likunduamba had benefited from the training on the subject mentioned, in order to build organizational and operational capacities of the local development committee’s beneficiaries of the 4 forest concessions of local communities. Literally the training has known the participation of 40 local management committees’ members of 4 forest concessions of local communities of Likunduamba, equivalent to 10 members per forest concessions of local communities, 4 members belonging to Likunduamba (chief of groupement and its 3 villages) and 1 local trainer. 45 attendees have successfully been trained emphasizing on the respect of gender participation principle. AWF has also pursued the activities on implementing the local governance committees within the forest concessions of local communities to the benefit of Likunduamba and its 3 villages surrounding (Ilima, Lotulo and Bolima). Ultimately, the local governance committees implemented including communities’ assemblies, local management committee and local development committee. In this context, AWF had organized the information meeting,
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 sensitization, sharing at Ilima village as well as Bolima and Lotula. The meeting activities have respectively been held in order to support 120 participants (from local community’s villages identified above) to prepare election of their leaders who will run different local governance structures forest concessions of local communities. Needless to mention that the AWF technically escorted the local communities, local authorities, local leaders of Likunduamba related to implementation and approval process. Moreover, through the community assembly implemented by AWF, 3 beneficiaries villages of 4 forest concessions of local communities were capable to identify their ritual sites, type of activities as well as forests conflict generally encountered in the zone.
AWF success has been observed in regard to the local development plan implementation in Duale and Lomako sectors. To achieve this goal the meeting, sensitization have been held with the stakeholders involved such as head of sector, chiefs of groupement as well as agents of local services. Additionally, the participatory diagnostic phase has been conducted towards the households and institutions. The diagnostic phase enabled to collect data at local communities, identify strengths, weaknesses, threats as well as opportunities at Dualé and Lomako sectors.
Key Result 1.2 Permanent forests mapped, maintained and secured from illegal activities
Restitute micro zoning achievements in MLW landscape at national level
In the area of land use planning, the DRC had not, until recently, undertaken a national land use planning scheme, nor a national sectoral planning scheme; instead, it has been using sector specific plans.
It is within this framework that the Ministry of the Environment by Order No. 106/CAB/MIN/ECN-T/15/JEB/009 of 20 August 2009 provided for the implementation of the participatory zoning process piloted by AWF in the MLW landscape. Through its "Participatory Land Use Plan" (PLUP), developed in the MLW landscape, AWF has been able to identify three types of macrozones namely protected areas, rural development areas and extraction areas. Within the landscape, AWF identified a priority area for microzoning, i.e. the Cadjobe macrozone that led to the delimitation of 3741 km2 of the permanent forests and 805 km2 of the non-permanent forests (cfr. MOV1.1.8 - Report on effectiveness of microzoning activities in MLW).
Workshops for the restitution and validation of results were organized at local, territorial and provincial levels. This effort informed the process of forest zoning and national land management led by the Congolese government. This ultimate goal is a revision or enrichment of national guidelines in this area to support the vision of zoning and planning of the national territory initiated by the Congolese government.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Preliminary information gathering on the establishment of rules and principles for the sustainable management of the permanent forests of the macrozone Cadjobe in the MLW landscape
The results obtained from the micro-zoning process through participatory mapping in the macrozone square of Djolu Befale (Cadjobe) resulted in the delimitation of 3741 km2 of permanent forests and 805 km2 of non-permanent forests. This is sanctioned by the Provincial Order No. 230/043/CAB/PROGOU/TSH/BDL/KJL/2017 of 16/8/2017 bearing: "Formalization of the results of participatory mapping of the Cadjobe macrozone forest lands " and can only be maintained if there are rules and principles of management, allowing all users of the forest to participate in its management and to benefit equitably from its resources as stipulated in article 6 of the above mentioned order. Any total or partial decommissioning of one of the micro-zoned forests including their assignment to other use is only valid if it results from an agreement of all the members of the community concerned gathered in community council and approved by the competent authority of the jurisdiction.
To do so, AWF consulted 644 local villages of 12 groupements of 3 sectors to collect the customary rules of management of natural resources to be formalized as principles of management of forests intended to consolidate the gains and stabilize the boundaries of micro-zoned forests during participatory mapping conducted in the CADJOBE macrozone (cfr. MOV1.1.11Memo on rules and principles for the management of permanent forests).
Assess and improve reforestation initiatives implemented from 2016 to 2017
With the deforestation drivers identified in the area, i.e. slash and burn agriculture, the production of wood energy to address these threats AWF has advocated agroforestry as a solution to the problem. Agroforestry plantations were implemented in the territories of Basankusu, Djolu and Bongandanga between 2016 and 2017.
As a result of our field study, we found that the various plantations implemented in the territories of Basankusu, Djolu and Bongandanga recorded a survival rate (performance appraisal) of 81%. The territory indicators of Basankusu, Bongandanga and Djolu record the respective survival rates of 83%, 49%, 75%. In Basankusu, a local CBO was created to focus on agroforestry (NOREF). This CBO composed of 10 structures has reforested a total of 146 hectares with a loss rate estimated at 17 percent.
The tree species and crops to integrate should address the identified deforestation drivers and have a sustainable economic or social importance to ensure food security and the diversification of farmers ' income sources. Fruit trees, caterpillar trees, trees for lumber that are appreciated for their quality and hardiness have been integrated.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 In terms of appropriation of the basic principles of agroforestry transmitted to the structures in the project area, AWF started by addressing the deforestation threats in the project area and subsequently proposed alternatives to the slash and burn agriculture and the manufacture of charcoal (wood energy) practiced in the Basankusu area. These interventions were based on the sharing of local experiences, the promotion of traditional practices and the introduction of good agroforestry practices through various training courses where 18 people (1 woman and 17 men) were beneficiaries.
Concerning the adoption of these approaches outside the sites directly supported by AWF, the evaluation revealed that there has been a change in the level of understanding and adoption of agroforestry techniques outside the sites directly supported by AWF based upon the fact that there are now more than 10 new associations, including 5 in Basankusu, 3 in Bongandanga and 2 in Djolu with 30 members who have adhered to the vision of our partners (NOREF). NOREF has set up 5 nurseries with 236,412 plants and to date has integrated 100,000 plants on 10 ha.
With regard to the local perception and preference of the types of tree species to be reforested and crops to be integrated, it emerged that the basic diet of the populations of Basankusu, Bongandanga and Djolu is based on starches (yam, cassava and banana), vegetables (cassava leaves, amaranth), raw consumed fruits (avocado, safou) and beverages (palm wine). The nutritional value of some species, including Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) and Ricinodendron heudelotii (Euphorbiaceae) known locally as Methaniki, allowed populations to cover their energy and vitamin needs. Species used as lumber and ornamental plants are a significant resource in agroforests as they are used by peasants either for construction or for commercialization. Their low representativeness in plantations could be attributed either to their use as firewood, or to unpopularity due to incompatibility with the food crop, or to over-exploitation.
From all the above, an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities (SWOT) was conducted to highlight the efficacy of the Agroforestry initiative in the project area (MOV 1.2.7 MLW Agroforestry report).
This analysis has identified as a strength the availability of local expertise for agroforestry training on good practices in tree nurseries. Uncontrolled bush fire, deforestation due to charcoal production and the slash and burn agriculture, the destruction of plants by ill- intentioned people and by domestic animals for the sites close to villages were considered as threats. Alternately, the existence of structures formed during the previous phases of USAID/AWF funding in the area are opportunities (cfr. MOV 1.2.7 MLW Agroforestry report).
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Popularization of the customary management rules of permanent forests of the CADJOBE macrozone
With the rules and principles of management of forest resources developed, AWF has proceeded with the popularization to 644 people from 87 villages of 12 groupements to get them to firmly commit to abide by the customary rules and principles of permanent forest management before making it clear to local officials (re: chief of locality and groupement) their role as guarantor of compliance with the management rules adopted and finally agree on the mechanism of dissemination of these rules and the implementation of the participatory resource control system (MOV1.1.14 Report of dissemination of the memo).
Management and Using Plan Land
AWF has initiated analysis studies related to forest cover change of more than 117 villages of Cadjobe microzone. In order to achieve Using Plan Land goal, all stakeholders were involved and then signed the protocol of agreement covering approximately 805 km2 of non- permanent forests (rural development zone) and 3741.83 km2 permanent forests. During the period, the activity has enabled to identify and figure out the multiple major factors of permanent micro-zoned forest in Cadjobe micro-zone.
It was initiated an individual interview and inquiries in the villages which enabled AWF to cover 233 households. The survey results indicated several direct and indirect pressure indicators including demographic pressure, land tenure, slash and burn agriculture (agriculture is no longer used in medium especially 10% to 20 % for products transformation of direct consumption against 90% to 80% undergo the transformation into alcohol for sell), artisanal loggin at Nkole et Nkokolombo groupement; wood energy. Additionally, it found out that Cadjobe forest macrozone account more than 10 active encampments installed since more than 4 decades.
The table provides the data collected from participative mapping in Cadjobe micronizing.
Groupement Agricultural Permanent Human Surface of Training on Number of area(ha) forest population agricultural area GPS using village area(ha) per population microzoned NKOLE 5102 21548 13520 0,37 4 3/5 LINGOMO 5423 33079 1483 3,65 4 5/7 YOLOTA 1187,5 72650 26219 0,04 4 13/15 NKOKOLOMBO 7971,3 19725 5940 1,34 49 7/7 BOKUMBO 10116,3 38769 15035 0,67 70 10/10 BALANGA 4088,1 3929 4183 0,97 40 7/7 LIKONDA 10951,1 19023 7737 1,41 132 32/33 LIKUNDUAMBA 2925 40390 403,9 7,24 2 3/3 BOMUANKOY 5465 44070 5633 0,97 2 10/12
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 LIKONGO 10330,31 75000 9717 1,06 78 13/13 MOMA 817,3 6000 1072 0,76 18 3/3 BOKUMBELOKO 1119,8 - 1612 1,58 30 5/6 LE EKANLAKOY 2553,8 - 3594 0,71 36 6/10 Total 68050,51 374183 96148,9 20,77 469 117/124 Source : GIS- Office/ AWF
Thus 68050,51hectares of non-permanent zone are affected to agricultural activities; 374183 constituted area of permanent forests untouched, delimited and mapped; 469 guidance’s from 117 villages cover by macrozoning benefited capacity building on GPS using, participative mapping, reading maps on satellite image as well as collecting field data.
During the period, AWF initiated training activity to the benefit of 8 local assistants related to data collection technique in the field and capacity building focused on authentic strategies of good relationship between interviewer/interviewed, the good conduct of the interview, interview language and ultimately on key objectives as well as information to be collected.
AWF has also realized sensitization on customary management rules of the permanent forests of Cadjobe microzone. The process aims to capitalize the efforts on using plan land through microzone and participative mapping with a view to bring the local communities to the consensus and firm engagement to the respect of principles and customary management rules of the permanent forests. To achieve the objective, the meeting has been held with provincial members of key ministers (interior and decentralization, agricultural, rural development) as well as the provincial congresses in order to share information on the process. Finally, the work enabled to raise awareness of 87 villages belonging to 12 groups with an average of 8 to 10 participants per village, either a total of 644 members representing villages in three sectors.
At the same year, AWF has realized the progress related to verification forest loss with in Befale and Djolu. Six villages have been selected according to forest loss, including Yambula, Ingungu, Bokondo, Yosenge, Ilima, Lifanga. In order to obtain the outcome some tools have been utilized especially map of forest loss (andsat image), GPS (garmin 60 scx), shapefile (GIS data field), collect file data).
In framework of microzoning, AWF has implemented the microzoning in South-East part of RFLY with a view to delimit for cantonment in development rural areas or the zones allocated to field activities occupied by Kitawalistes local communities. As results, it was found out through digitization (maps) the existence of slash and burn agriculture activities. The areas have been calculated through ArcGis 10.4 hardware and then found the permanents encampment agricultural zones of kitawalistes (Losombo, Nkungu, Bomponde, Bomanga I and II which respectively present 539,76 hectares; 751,56 hectares and 341,61hectares. Total cumulated of 1632, 84hectares. Agricultural zones reach an average
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 of 3km radius. This also enabled to provide estimated population data especially: 896 at Bomponde, 470 at Losombo, 720 at Bomanga I, 45 Bomanga II, 280 at Nkungu. It was also found that the local communities practice illegal activities such as boats manufacture, hunting by setting traps, etc.
During the period, AWF has invested the efforts on participative delimitation of RFLY particularly in South-East and South-West as well as its intensification at Lomako axis in purpose of preventing conflicts from incursion of local communities and also to facilate patrol operations in the reserve. As results 23 geographic indicative posters have been set up throughout across the reserve.
The efforts were combined by AWF to assess behavior change into the MLW landscape in order to know to situation around the RFLY and RCBI. The results showed that 3 villages were surveyed at high frequency level, especially the villages of Lisoko, Bolongo and Yokali. Sex-based inquiry reveals a gender balance and age ranges vary from 36 to 56 years old. As part of this activity, 73,1% surveyed persons confirmed that the communities have participated in the different training courses organized by AWF in the various activities organized in the field of the landscape against 26,9%. It was pointed out that 45,1% surveyed persons confirmed that the communities benefited from training courses on Agroforestry; 7,7% surveyed persons confirmed that the community have benefited training on soap production; ¾ landscape territories (Basankusu, Bongandanga, Befale and Djolu) have also benefited from various training courses. Concerning behavioral change on natural resource management at the village level, the study reveals that 346 or 98, 9% surveyed persons confirmed an observation of behavior change in the landscape following AWF actions such as the activities related to the destruction of the forest, regulation of hunting, etc. The study provides the statistics of aspects that have changed the behavior of the population, for instance 2 or 6% of surveyed people say that agriculture dominate over other sectors, 53 or 15,1% of surveyed people affirm the improvement of family revenue, 13 or 3,7% surveyed persons says the mitigation of anthropogenic pressure on natural resources, 171 or 48,9% surveyed persons confirms a change in construction of conservation school, 33 or 9,4% surveyed persons confirms job creation, 5 or 1,4% surveyed persons states a decrease of unwanted pregnancies and maternal mortality, 21 or 6,0% surveyed persons says that local communities are monitoring their own natural resources, 6 or 1,7% surveyed persons argue that women supported by AWF have become autonomous , etc.).
From the point of view of change in agricultural practices, 328 or 93,7% surveyed persons says that the populations have changed their behavior related to agricultural practice by introducing new farming techniques, bringing in new seeds and the respect of agricultural standards as well as principles. In terms of behavioral change in natural resource management (NRM), it is shown that 346 or 98,9% surveyed persons says that the population observes NRM by abandoning unsustainable NRM practices as well as respect for rural development zones. Regarding agroforestry, 299 or 85,4% surveyed persons says that the population observes agroforestry. Positively it was shown an increase of forest cover
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 estimated to 59,5% brought by the contribution of agroforestry in the landscape. And then 85,4% surveyed persons responds that the change caused to agroforestry. With regard to hunting, 46,9% of respondent’s state that the communities are masters of the totally protected species.
With regard to hunting, 46,9% surveyed persons state that the communities knows totally protected species. Concerning hunting field 84% surveyed persons confirms an existence of change in hunting practice and consent for responsible fishing. Regarding the change in community dynamics, the results of the study indicates that associations are created every single day, 95,7% members adhere to peasant association. As for the change in crop yield, there was an increase of crop in the landscape following the supply of improved seeds. From the point of view of change in the consumption of bushmeat: 1% of surveyed persons says an improvement, 2% surveyed persons confirm an increase and 61% confirm a decrease, 36% say that consumption remains the same. Concerning a change in the slash-and-burn agriculture practice, 42% surveyed persons say that it remains the same, 3% confirm that it came worse, 55% say that it is improved. In terms of change in human activities at PA level, 99% surveyed persons say the decrease, 5% surveyed persons say an increase. Regarding poaching, 20% surveyed persons say an increase, 85% say a decrease, 5% surveyed persons believes it remains the same. About the change in partnership ICCN and Community 99% of surveyed persons say an improvement, 2% surveyed persons say that the relationship remains the same, and 0% surveyed say no relationship. As for the change in illegal fishing practices, 39% of surveyed persons say an improvement, 75% surveyed persons confirm a decrease, 5% surveyed believe that it remain the same.
Key Result 1.3 Strategies in and around the landscape developed in harmony with conservation targets
Organize a workshop at Provincial level to link MLW landscape vision to the development priorities of Tshuapa and Mongala Provinces.
Within the MLW landscape AWF has also focused the activity on local development priorities of Tshuapa province. Mainly the AWF succeeded organize an outstanding workshop at provincial level on the conciliation of AWF’s vision in MLW landscape to the local development priorities of Tshuapa province. From this activity, the stakeholders and participants comprehend that AWF’s vision it’s maintaining ecological integrity and Tshuapa province’s vision is local development for improvement of improving the living conditions of population. Through the activity the plethora of recommendations has been formulated towards AWF as well as provincial Government such as: funding certain priority projects of the provincial Government by AWF including the rehabilitation of roads for evacuation of basic products; establishment of permanent AWF consultation framework and provincial Government; setting up of intersectoral mission to assess the impact of priority interventions on a quarterly basis, fight against negative political influence, reintegration of kitawalistes into modern society, involving of civil society in sensitization of beneficiaries,
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 setting up the local monitoring committees in the field, making available the mapping zones in all site of AWF’s interventions, AWF and partners must support for the multiplication of improved seeds from other crops, etc. (Cfr. MOV1.3.2 Workshop Reports on the link of MLW landscape vision to the development priorities of Tshuapa and Mongala Provinces).
Formalize governance structures in Lomako, Duale, and Loile Sectors
With the administrative reform in the DRC, the "sector" entity has more powers and is called upon to exercise financial and management autonomy. This requires the setting up governance structures to decide on the main orientations of the sector and develop the "Local Development Plan".
AWF facilitated the process of creation of the "Local development committees" in the Sectors of Lomako and Duale (Terr.Befale) and in the Sector of Loile (Terr.Ikela). These committees are supposed to lead on development of integrated conservation and development plans for the administrative entity (see below).
Facilitate the development of Local Development Plans for 3 sectors surrounding key conservation areas (Duale, Lomako and Loile)
The Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) promulgated on 18 February 2006, opted for decentralization, with power being recognized at three levels: central, provincial and local governance. This strategic choice delegates to Provinces and Decentralized Territorial Entities (DTE) the responsibility to plan their development and to take in charge of the economic development of their communities.
The main challenge is the weak capacities of the actors and people. Supposedly, development plans should be inclusive and participatory, and produces a real impact on the quality of life for all citizens. It is about making the development of the provinces and the DTE a reality for the different communities. In order to meet this capacity gap, AWF facilitated the development of local development plans for three sectors in the MLW landscape (Lomako, Duale and Loile) chosen because of their proximity to protected areas (Lomako) and/or Local Communities forest concessions (Duale and Loile).
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 STRATEGY 2: PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE LIVELIHOOD ACTIVITIES TO REDUCE UNSUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES
Key Result 2.1 Farmers association around CADJOBE continue applying sustainable agriculture practices
The following achievements were made during 2018.
Progress in scaling agricultural activities Area covered in A 2017 (great rainy season in which sowing starts at September and finishes at November 2017) and B 2018 (small rainy season in which sowing starts at January and finishes at March 2018) Seasons.
Total area of field multiplication was 1,795.45 ha for all active Associations in the CADJOBE during 2017/2018 Seasons. If we consider the two Seasons, Cassava occupied 1,513.67 ha, maize 111.18 ha, Groundnut 117.72 ha, rice 32.12 ha, soybean 12.89 ha and cowpea 7.87 ha. These multiplication fields were installed not only in the community’s fields but also by each members of farmers’ associations.
Harvest of seed multiplication fields installed during 2018 Seasons For cereals and legumes crops, total production for the two seasons is 29,740 kg including 21,371 kg of maize, 4,358 kg of rice, 3,509 kg of groundnut, 169 kg of cowpea and 333 kg of soybean. For cassava, stems harvest is 794,375 linear meter (ML). A total production of 21,371 kg of maize produced in the CADJOBE, 58% (12,320 kg) was transformed into alcoholic beverage, 14% (3,070 kg) was sold, 22% (4,767 kg) was stored, 3% (552 kg) was locally consumed and 3% (661 kg) was distributed. This use situation reflects the importance that local communities give to maize alcoholic beverage market which generates income easily. Compared to other crops, cowpea and soybean do not yet feature as important.
Harvest cassava of experimental plots of spacing installed during B 2017 Season (January – March 2017) Farmers in the MLW landscape usually plant cassava in intercropping often with cereals (maize or rice). IITA has initiated two spatial spacing for cassava in intercropping with maize and rice: 1 m x 1 m and 2 m x 0.5 m, which were compared with Farmer’s practice. The cassava was harvested at the end of March 2018. Results show that, planting cassava with or without intercropping with improved varieties and spatial spacing allow for twofold increase of yield. Members of Associations which tested these experimental plots are convinced that the cassava yield increases thanks to the use of improved varieties and spatial spacing with intercropping with cereals.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Socio – economic data collecting in the CADJOBE Prices of agricultural products in the CADJOBE are in general the same, nevertheless, some variations are observed for products such as maize and groundnut at Lingomo and Gambela (at Yetombo) markets respectively.
Seed markets Request for seeds were made by farmer’s associations to ISCO which is an agricultural development organization based at Boende. Following their visibility, ISCO is in contact with associations which are working with IITA. Available quantities were 1,811kg of rice and 2,287 kg of groundnuts. For cassava stems, there were enough quantities. For cassava stems, the quantities were sufficient and although farmers had already cut stems at ISCO’s request, ISCO did not take any more and the stems dried up. However, conscious of the damage which it had inflicted on farmers ISCO paid them half of the price to compensate them for the loss.
Active associations and fields coordinates of September 2017 and March 2018 Seasons September Season (A 2017 Season) is a time dominated by collection of caterpillars, so farmer associations and householders are often inactive during this season for field activities. However, 27 associations were active during the A 2017 Season) against 175 for B 2018 Season.
Seeds distribution to households for March 2018 Seasons Seeds distribution to households shows that by the end of September 2018; 3,500 kg of rice to 350 households; 1,750 kg of maize to 310 households, 1,640 kg of groundnut to 150 households, 95 kg of cowpea to 185 households, 120 kg of soybean to 169 households and 21,850 ML of cassava stems to 189 households.
Key Result 2.2 Access to markets reactivated after the handover of the original MB Moïse Boat
In order to revitalize and organize the market access system in zone to facilitate cohesion between peasant’s producers associations, traders and ship-owners associations, AWF proceeded by identifying the number of traders in different sites. This enabled to identify 72 traders and 2 producers association in Basankusu; 28 traders and 2 producers association in Waka; 11 traders and 1 producer association in Isekalokoto; 44 traders and 2 producers association in Bongandanga; 17 traders and 1 producer association in Lilenga; 66 traders and 3 producers association in Djolu; 17 traders and 1 producer association in Bokondo; 13 traders and 1 producer association in Befori; 17 traders and 1 producer association Mompono; 9 traders and 1 producer association in Wamba. After the stage of identification, the producers have been constituted into producer associations and their capacity built. As the results, 14 producer associations are created in landscape development zone; 278 traders identified around the development poles; 8 relays warehouse management committees refurbished and had beneficiated training on warehouse management as well as market
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 information system with a view of enabling the producers get information access and sell the local products.
AWF took a step forward related to market experience access in the MLW landscape during the period. In fact, the inventory has widely revealed that 8 warehouses have been built at Bansakusu, Djolu, Bongandanga and Befale which are operating especially the presence of private boarding in different ports of landscape with an accurate planning facilitating the storage of basic products before their evacuation towards consumption centers. Upstream activity has allowed AWF to figure out that the beneficiaries association are able to manage evacuation unit, the warehouses are operating and managed by the local communities through the local management committees, the availability of basic products on the markets, the new directives for easy access to market are identified and documented, the products stored in different warehouses are estimated up to 1000 tons, the local management committees are implemented at each warehouse.
AWF has also conducted a study on capitalize experience from market access related to MOISE boat project which still operating to facilitate the local communities to evacuate their agricultural products towards the shopping centers, particularly at Mbandaka and Kinshasa. As results the boat activity has enabled the diminution of pressure on forest resources especially around the RFLY and RCBI reserves. According to biomonitoring it exists an increase in colonies of protected species with an abundance clue of bonobo and reappearance of elephants. Additionally, the boat activity enabled to evacuate the non- timber forest products which constituted several beneficiary’s householders to increase their revenue and then to procure the basic assets. The study reveals also that the boat contributed to open up the MLW landscape through trade exchange between producers and traders coming from town centers. Mbandaka town is ranked amongst the first destination of loaded merchandises and Basankusu, Mompono, Befori towns are ranked in second position. However, the villages of Basankusu, Waka, Baringa, Managania, Isekalokoto, Mompono and Befori constitutes the first destination sites with more than 60% of tons. The most transported products in departure are: cement (371.900 kg transported from 2011 to 2015), iron bars, sheets (16.710 kg transported from 2011 to 2015), divers (used clothes), salt (3552 kg transported from 2011 to 2015), wheat flour (44.350 kg from 2011 to 2015), sugar, plastic (chair, table, plates, etc.), petrol, mattress, bicycle, agricultural materials. The most transported products back from landscape are: maize ( bag of 120 kg, total of 124.0680 kg from 2011 to 2015), mushroom (bag of 50 kg, total transported 4.950 kg in 2011, 2012 and 2015), tracks (bag of 50 kg, total transported 6.950 kg in 2011,2012, 2013 and 2015), oil of palm (basket of 25 liters, total transported 19.500 kg from 2011 to 2015), traditional alcohol (basket of 25 liters, total transported 8.750 kg from 2011 to 2015), cassava ( bag of 80 kg total transported 75680 kg from 2011 to 2015), coffee ( bag of 100 kg total transported 51600 kg from 2011 to 2015), rubber ( total transported in 2014 estimated to 386.000 kg). Globally, from 2011 to 2015 the Moise boat has transported 1794110 kg products, and he built a partnership which enabled to spend $ 59.82 from 2010 to 2015.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Key Result 2.3 Communities, especially women empowered and increase their income
Establish a women’s business incubator in Bongandanga with initial 30 women trained on literacy, soap making, dressmaking, business planning and cooperative entrepreneurship.
AWF has launched a vocational training center in cutting and sewing, traditional manufacture of soaps, literacy and other emerging needs in Bongandanga in favor of a first promotion of 30 women selling bush meat to make them benefit from the successful experiences of Basankusu and Djolu with the aim of contributing to the sustainable management of natural resources through the promotion of women's entrepreneurship and the empowerment of women (MOV1.6.2 Report on business incubator establishment).
Organize women of the incubator centers of Basankusu, Bongandanga and Djolu into officially registered cooperatives
With the launch of the Bongandanga training center the network of incubators as development pillars is functional and must work in synergy to develop a responsible female leadership and become a conservation platform with all the official recognition documents, and a legal status (status, and Rules of Procedure).
For this AWF has assisted these women in the creation and the official recognition of a structure called "Centre for empowerment of women and environmental Education" (CAFEE in acronym) with a representation in Djolu, Bongandanga and Basankusu and a Coordinating Committee represented by women from these development centers (incubators) (MOV1.6.2 Report on business incubator establishment).
Technical support to microfinance and women’s incubator
During the performance period AWF was invested in technical training activities and microfinance support to women's incubators of Basankusu, Bongandanga and Djolu, with unique objective to contribute to the sustainable management of natural resources through the promotion of women's entrepreneurship for the empowerment of professional women. This activity has enabled to reach the following results: 150 women benefited training on microfinance management; it means 50 women at Basankusu, 50 women at Bongandanga and 50 women at Djolu. In the same approach 60 women have received the microcredit for the first phase, either 20 women in Bansankusu, 20 women in Bongandanga and 20 women in Djolu.
In fact, the activity developed in the MLW landscape helped women involved in illegal activity of bushmeat to find out an income-generating activity (IGA) through the incubator project implemented in the landscape. In the same approach, the local authorities were sensitized and involved for implementation of activity in the field. Moreover, AWF has developed literacy training for the benefit of 55 women at Lingomo and Iyondji village with
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 an overarching objective to contribute to the promotion of women's participation in decision-making and improvement exercising of her leadership in the landscape. Through the activity 33 women in Lingomo and 25 women in Iyondji benefited from the training, which allowed them to acquire the basic knowledge on calculation, writing and reading.
AWF has carried out a survey activity on the basic needs of local communities with the overall objective to measure the impact of the program's biodiversity conservation and poverty reduction within local populations. This work allowed the selection of 18 villages in the landscape, and 10 investigators were selected to cover 14 intervention zones to carry out basic necessary standard surveys. The analysis results reveals the following: (i) proportion of head of household in the villages surveyed reveals that 540 households were surveyed, either 78% men and 22% women; (ii) Proportion of the type of household head in the project villages indicates 82% of men are heads of households and 18% of women are heads of households and beneficiaries of AWF projects; (iii) clue of average well-being per household per village (poverty score) indicates 10 on 11 villages have a clue above of average what means the alternative projects implemented by AWF have had a positive impact. The highest scores are in the villages of Mompono (64%), Lingomo (61.50%) and Lingunda (60%). The comparison of the average well-being clue per village provides intensively evidence that in 2018, 10 on 11 villages exceeded the average, whilst in 2015 there were 7 villages. The highest score in 2015 was 63,70% in Ilima village, however, in 2018 the highest score in Mompono village was 64%, justified by market access. In 2015 two villages had the highest scores especially Ilima (60.50%) and Ingungu (63.70%), which found out their scores decreased in 2018 from 58.88% at Ilima and 60.40% at Ingungu. The comparison shows that half of witness’s village in 2018 are also on average of poverty clue, these are mainly the villages of Lisoko and Yangonde. Ultimately, the SNB conducted in the MLW landscape proves a positive impact of alternative development activities for households within the intervention zones.
According to what developed above, AWF proceeded by the assessment of the natural resources framework implemented across the MLW landscape and it enabled to obtain the following results: (i) ICCN Lomako work within RFLY reserve between two provinces (Tshuapa et Mongala) and comprise a total of 72 agents; (ii) ICCN Iyondji belong to RCBI located at Djolu territory which disposes 29 agents, it means 26 men and 3 women; (iii) local governance: local development committee of Mompono including 90 members which 15 of them constitute a steering committee; local development committee of Iyondji comprise 60 members which 15 of them constitute a steering committee; local development committee of Djolu is located at the center of Djolu. Analysis results provides the following data: (i) ICCN RFLY attribute assessment indicates that the ICCN RFLY do have a full power decision-making and decision-executing, clear motivation of agents to work in spite of financial resources limited, law and rules enforcement contribute to natural resources management sustainable, transparency enable community to participate at all meeting level; (ii) ICCN RFLY attribute assessment demonstrate his authority at all level despite the slight influence from hierarchy. It is important to point out an average score in institutional
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 framework such as field conflict between authorities; and the great scores are identified about decision-making, agents motivation; (iii) Djolu local development committee attribute assessment reveals that 10 scores of attributes are below of average, authorities expressed and transparency; (iv) Mompono local development committee indicates the weaknesses expressed by the majority of services, however two forces were remarkable related to diversity, it was mentioned that the weaknesses come from the lack of sense of responsibility, transparency, funding, equipment and participation of members, deficiency of technical knowledge; (v) Iyondji local development committee assessment reveals that the participation has a superior score because of structured group and commitment of members to work, however the weaknesses score are identified cause of poor distribution of advantages, lack of technical knowledge of members. In conclusion assessment activity has enabled to formulate adequate recommendations to each local development committee (Cfr MOV1.6.2 Report on business incubator establishment).
REFADD
The partner REFADD conducted a short study over a few days in the 4 sites where it works on the appropriation of the project. This was meant to inform what to emphasize and what to correct before the end of the project.
This short study did not concern the whole project. The methodology used and the questionnaire are explained in the detailed report submitted separately. Some of the results of this study are listed below: - 87.5% of the respondents were involved in the bushmeat trade prior to the AWF/REFADD support; - 25% of respondents say they do not sell bush meat because the law forbids it; - 37.5% of respondents say they sell bush meat because the law authorizes it (in accordance with the Governor's decree on the hunting opening and closing period); - 12.5% of respondents say that they only sell meat from domestic animals since they are beneficiaries of REFADD credits, and the others say they are ready to restart; - 12.5% and others are without position; - 80% of literate women say they see a change in their lives because they know how to read and write; - 20% think that reading and writing has impacted their finances; - 25% of women acknowledge having improved their social capital thanks to the CAFEC project (ranging from one kilo of soda to one bag); - 25% acknowledge having changed activities (selling peanuts) to a more profitable activity (sale of soaps); - 37.5% acknowledges having assigned a part to the survival (food, schooling, clothing and medical care) of households and the other part to the construction of the dwellings; - 60% of the subjects surveyed were either direct or indirect beneficiaries of the duck breeding activity. According to their empirical knowledge;
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 - 40% said they have learnt new techniques/best practices from the women of the REFADD.
Literacy classes
The literacy program has strengthened the skills of 120 women in writing, math and reading. These women leaders are no longer complexed with their illiterate state. They now represent others in decision-making meetings. They are confident in themselves and can participate in investigations organized in the MLW. They can engage in income-generating activities and encourage their daughters to go to school (Cfr. MOV1.6.6 Report on literacy classes).
Follow up production and marketing support soap
A total of 100 women were accompanied in the production and marketing of soaps distributed in four production units located in Djolu, Lingomo and Lifanga. This activity attracts many people and now requires that the Ilima relay organization be trained and equipped for this activity. This activity is accompanied by community-based natural resource Management (CBNRM) awareness sessions.
A total of 67.412,36 soaps was produced with 24.609,21 liters of oil et another chemical produce (Soude caustique: 2151,4kg), anothers products (colorant, titane, sulfate:789kg) Amount produced: 30,430 $ produced for 18,950 $ invested.
Soap production table of the units
In order to address the recommendation of the USAID MTE REFFADD worked to make the women's soap cooperative more functional. With regard to the revitalization of the cooperative of the manufacturers of soaps in Djolu, three meetings that brought together the four units of production and sale of soaps were organized in Djolu center for 40 people including 39 women and 1 man. The difficulty of supplying inputs for soaps in the area was raised, which is often the basis of the rupture in the production chain.
To develop further on this, two types of co-ops have been proposed: 1. Produce soaps within a common factory; put together the soap market and share the winnings. 2. Establish itself as a supply cooperative and resale of inputs, i.e. buy the chemicals at wholesale price and resell to members at that same wholesale price/other non-member producer’s buy from the cooperative at market price. The benefit is shared between the
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 members every three months to strengthen their activity. Members have opted unanimously for this second option.
Women's soap manufacturers opted to create a cooperative to buy and resell chemicals. This allows them to avoid the lack of chemicals often found in the area as well as to provide soap manufacturers at a good price and at any time.
This included legalizing the statutes of this cooperative of women who produce and sell. The Administrator of the territory and the inspector in charge of rural development each made a decision on the recognition of this new Cooperative Company undertaking which was created within their administrative jurisdiction.
Activities linked to the bush meat marketing alternatives
A total of 25 women bush meat vendors freely agreed to abandon the bush meat trade and only sell the farmed meat and/or fish to the central market in the Djolu territory and thus acceded to a rotating credit set up.
The REFADD has translated the forest Code and the Hunting Act into Lingala where:
- 700 posters on the rights and duties of the communities produced and laminated; - 500 copies of Act No. 82-002 of 28 May 1982 on the regulation of simplified hunting, translated and multiplied; - 500 copies of the forest Code translated into Lingala for the use of indigenous peoples and local communities were translated and multiplied; - The trainer of awareness guides identified in the project area.
Monitoring activities breeding ducks
539 ducks were reproduced, of which 97 sold and 442 redistributed to other households by filming system.
Behavior change with respect to consumption and marketing of bushmeat
- 24 broadcasted radio programs were held for deterrence; - 4 main themes: the content of laws regulating hunting, Family Planning, behavioral change with respect to bushmeat; - Several contradictory debates with the journalists and the answer to the concern of the auditors realized; - Motorized caravans for sensitization to change behavior towards bushmeat.
Assessment of breeding and beekeeping activities AWF has also demonstrated tremendous progress related to the assessment of livestock and beekeeping activities in MLW landscape through beneficiary’s householders of Mondombe,
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Iyondji/Djolu, Bongandanga, Lingomo. The activity aimed to evaluate performance level according to the number of available males with a view to improve livestock and beekeeping initiatives implemented from 2013 to 2017. The achievements showed a survival rate of the different males scattered across 3 territories of Ikela, Djolu and Bongandanga: The statistic of assessment demonstrated that the beneficiaries of cattle’s, the number of beasts disseminated and number of existing beasts on site. (i) Ilongo: 1 male and 2 females number of beasts disseminated, 1 male and 2 females number of beasts on the site; (ii) Ekombe: 1 male and 2 females number of beasts disseminated, 1 male and 2 females number of beasts on the site; (iii) Iyondji: 1 male and 2 females number of beast disseminated, 1 male and 2 females number of beasts on the site; (iv) Bongandanga 1 male and 2 females number of beats disseminated and 1 male and 2 females number of beasts on the site. In conclusion AWF has disseminated 4 males’ cows and 8 female’s cows on the site. And all cows stay as disseminated without any reproduction. The statistic of assessment on the goats has also demonstrated the following results per site: (1) Mpukaunga; 5 males and 10 females number of beasts disseminated from 2016 to 2017, 4 males and 6 females number of current beasts in 2018, (2) Mpango: 5 males and 10 females number of beasts disseminated from 2016 to 2017, 6 males and 14 females number of current beasts in April 2018, 4 males number of beasts produced and 3 number of beneficiaries in 2018;(3) Loka: 5 males and 10 females number of beasts disseminated from 2016 to 2017, 8 males and 19 number of current beasts in April 2018, 12 number of beasts produced and 9 number of beneficiaries in 2018. It is worth noting that 33 householders are beneficiaries of second turn of sharecropping system after beasts giving birth. The number of male given birth in zone project is 44 males either 48% of beasts disseminated in 2016. AWF proceeded by implementing 2 local management committees called CLD and UALCN. Ultimately the members have been trained to ensuring the respective principles established by agreement with a view of maintaining a regular monitoring.
STRATEGY 3: STRENGTHEN PROTECTED AREA (PA) MANAGEMENT CAPACITY
Key Result 3.1 Wildlife Species protected in and outside Protected Areas
AWF has successfully demonstrated efforts to improve the management of the existing 1167.500 acres of Lomako and Iyondji Protected Areas in close partnership with the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (CICN). As part of capacity building for management of protected areas within Maringa-Lopori-Wamba landscape (Iyondji Bonobos Communal Reserve (RCBI) and the Lomako-Yokokala Wildlife Reserve (RFLY) respectively managed by Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature, African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), along with its technical partner in the field, have carried out the training activities as well as recycling of ecoguards and other stakeholders concerned on using the combined SMART software at the CyberTracker. This activity has mainly been implemented in both sites, which enabled to reach out an average participation of 60 ecoguards per day, either an average of 45 ecoguards per day at the RFLY site, and 15
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 ecoguards per day at the RCBI site (MOV2.1.3 SMART CYBERTRACKER Refreshment Training Report).
The training session focused on assessment of ecoguards related to knowledge of using SMART/CyberTrcaker tool and other discipline concerned including forestry navigation, mapping and data collection tools. Additionally, the training activity contributed to build technical capacities of ecoguards in collection and data analysis through SMART/CyberTracker software, setting CyberTracker App into Runbo, export data base from Runbo and import patrol data from SMART software, downloading Runbo data to SMART software, sending patrol data through Internet. It may be worth mentioning that the SMART knowledge was found low at Lomako and lower at Iyondji. Inasmuch as the training was pertinent the ecoguards and potential focal points had expressed the wish to watch training carry on in the coming days.
It is worth noting that AWF has greatly brought a support in term of purchasing technical equipment and patrol for anti-poaching accordingly to the surveillance plan implementation at RFLY. Moreover in spite of a tough access to RFLY site, AWF purchased the following equipment and material: 22 Powerbanks, 3 boats, 23 memory cards, 2 hard drives, 88 green boots, 15 uniforms work of trackers, 88 raincoats, 17 tarpaulins, 88 T-shirts, 15 green hats, 30 green socks, 33 aluminum popotes(meals), 5 Silva compasses, 63 tarpaulins Aprenaz , 11 camping mattresses, 8 extension cables, 7 GPS, 4 radars, 3 laptops, 300 rechargeable batteries, 60 batteries chargers, 12 Trimbles batteries, 1 Vsat at Ekotombolo RFLY and accessories setting to ensure a direct liaison with the sector facilitating data transfer and reports in order to reduce moving cost.
In order to guarantee an effective and efficient surveillance system especially patrol surveillance with thoughtful actions, equipment as well as patrol material, AWF has organized a training sessions on capacity building on driving and repairing of outboard engine to the benefit of ecogards of Iyondji groupement. The training focused on two phases, namely the repairing machine and driving practices on Luo river (2 trips Iyondji-Befori- Iyondji and 1 trip on Boongo river). As the outcomes activity, actually two ecogards drove and repaired individually the outboard even during the long trips; the throttles cables and clutches have been replaced along with two ecogards trained; 4 assembly and disassembly sessions of carburetor carried out by three trainees; 4 navigations carried out during the training by trainees on Luo and Boongo rivers.
Existence of men-fauna conflict occurring in the MLW landscape obligated actions to be developed to management and deal with this matter. Therefore, AWF initiated 4 days of training per sector to build capacity on men-fauna conflict prevention and control to the benefit of at least 40 persons among which ICCN members, local community’s members, environmental supervisors of 4 sectors (Djolu, Befale, Bongandanga, Iketa). In term of results obtained: 8 environmental supervisors belonging to the sectors and territories of Befale (Lomako and Duale), Djolu(Luo), Ikela (Loile, Ilongo et Mpango) and Bongandanga (Bongandanga); 14 ecogards (RCBI and RFLY) and 18 members of local communities of
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Iyondji and Lukunduamba (Duale) have been trained on the topic and afford to assess the conflict that can occur in the zone as well as draft a straightforward report in reasonable period; finally the complementary information on problematical animals have been completed in purpose to improve the preliminary work on the identification conflicts of men-fauna in the MLW landscape.
As part of its strategic support to ICCN with a view of strengthening the management effectiveness of two protected areas, AWF proceeded to the inauguration of two administrative buildings at Ekotombolo (RFLY) and Iyondji (RCBI). The solemn activity of Iyondji administrative building has experimented a remarkable presence of ICCN agents, local customary and administrative authorities, civil society, local communities and members of local NGO of Djolu territory.
Train at least 40 ICCN Staffs and Territory Environment Supervisors officers on Human Wildlife Conflict Management (HWCM)
AWF has conducted an identification mission of potential sites with human-wildlife conflict characterized mainly by the destruction of structures by the attacks of pigs, buffalo and elephants.
The management of this conflict remains inadequate in the MLW landscape because of limited capacity of conflict management technique. It is in this context that AWF initiated a 4-day training to strengthen the capacity of 8 environmental supervisors from the territories of Befale (Lomako and Duale), Djolu (Luo), Ikela (Loile, Ilongo and Mpango) and Bongandanga (Bongandanga), 14 eco-guards (ICBR and RFLY) and 18 members of the local communities of Iyondji and Likunduamba (Duale).
These training sessions were based on four modules: (I) The Fauna book, the Human- wildlife conflicts (CHF), (II) the conflict book, (III) the solution workbook and (IV) the assessment of human-wildlife conflicts. (MOV2.1.2 Human Wildlife Conflict Management Training Report).
Key Result 3.2 Iyondji and Lomako Protected Areas management effectiveness improved
IMET assessment
A huge effort was demonstrated in framework of assessment of management effectiveness of two protected areas through IMET. Ultimately the following results have been obtained: (i) threats and pressures weighs on the reserve: The residential commercial development evaluated to 56,5% which is huge and present the existence of encampments in center and South of reserve zone as well as proliferation of bush meat market situated at South of Luo scientific reserve; 42% slash and burn agricultural, 12,6 % other pressures and threats( in particular men-fauna conflict); 11% using of biological resources occupy forth position (
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 justify by poaching and artisanal fishing); 7,5% pollution of rivers at Blighia welwitchii; (ii) RCBI management assessment : 39% with threats attracting negative management; (iii) RCBI planning: 48% adequacy of legislative and regulation provisions; 8,3% conception and configuration of protected area; 62,5 demarcation of protected area; 16,7% management plan; 66,7 work plan; 19% protected area goals. The summary indicator on RCBI planning shown 49%, it requires a good planning of tools especially IMET, Operational Plan and certain legal and regulation texts.
The evaluation indicates that stopping of monitoring had negatively affected the score which was 54, 6% in 2016; (iv) RCBI infrastructures, the items assessed: 31,3% basic information; 32,2% personal, 17,5% current budget; 30,5% infrastructure, equipment and installation. The assessment indicates an increase from 20% to 28% of infrastructure compared to the past assessment due to augmentation of patrols ration, knowledge protected areas affected by threats and pressures, etc; (v) process : 50% improving internal management of the reserve; 35% protection under average, 50,2% internal management, 34,9 % protection and management, 37,1% relations, 0,0% tourism, 13,4% monitoring and research, 6,2% climate change( lack of monitoring indicator on the impact of climate change in PA); (vi) results:60,0 % work programme implementation, 73,3% results achieved. Finally, the results increased from 53% to 69%. It requires a surveillance plan drafting (in process), Operational Plan implementation: patrols, improving of SMART utilization, participative delimitation in zone, etc; (vii) effects et impacts : increased from 51% to 56% comparatively to the past assessment; lack of monitoring indicator as well as monitoring plan; absence and deficiency of qualitative information related to designed values of PA. In the same context, in July 2018, AWF proceeded by the update of assessment management effectiveness IMET at RFLY. The activity has been held with the participation of local community members, technical and financial partners and ICCN management team. Globally, the IMET update provides the following results: (i) management context : 26,6% (in 2018), 19,3%5(in 2017) otherwise a gap of 7,3% ; (ii) management planning: 74,4 %(in 2018), 56,4%(in 2017) either the gap 18% ; (iii) infrastructure: 52,1% (in 2018), 42,5%(in 2017) either the gap 9,6% ; (iv) management process : 43,7(in 2018), 45,7%(in 2017) either the gap of -2% ; (v) management result: 70,3% (in 2018), 50,7% (in 2017) either the gap of 19,6% ; (vi) effects and impacts : 59,8%5 (in 2019), 59,9%5(in 2017) either the gap of -0,1% . The assessment reveals that there is a management progress in term of management context, planning, infrastructure allocated for management and obtained results.
Camera Trapping
Complete the biomonitoring data by using camera traps in Lomako
The faunal inventories of 2015 had undergone two phases, namely a wildlife inventory itself and a laying of camera traps to have an idea of the specific abundance of the Lomako- Yokokala Faunal Reserve (RFLY). As part of the AWF-CAFEC/USAID work plan for the year 2018, a set of camera traps was planned to confirm the presence of certain species of
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 animal that are difficult to inventory directly and to confirm the results obtained from the camera traps that was installed in 2015. A sampling was done in the southwest part of the reserve where the presence of elephants was noticed and in the Bonobos’ habituation area (around Iyema). Due to the reduced number of camera traps, 34 Quadras of 2 km x 2 km have been randomized to place the camera. 19 camera traps were placed in the southwest part of the Reserve and 15 around the bonobos' habituation area. These camera traps are of two different brands, namely Reconyx (19) and Cudde Back (15). Only the Reconyx camera traps have been successful during the 49 days spent in the forest due to their reduced energy consumption.
In terms of results, the following similar animal species obtained in 2015 were captured by the camera traps : the Cephalophus Callipygus, the C. Silvicultor, the C. dorsalis, the C. natalensis, the Tragelaphus Spekei, the Philongrave monticola, the Potamochoerus porcus, the Guttera Pucherani, the congenital afropavo, the pan paniscus, the Atherurus africanus, the Cricetomys Gambianus, The Binotata Nandinia, the Crossarchus obscurus, the Caracal aurata, the owl Owl and the Oryctérope (Orycteropus afer). In terms of innovations compared to the 2015 results, the camera traps were able to capture: the Leopard (Panthera Pardus), the giant Pangolin (Smutsia gigantea), the water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus). (MOV2.2.3 Biomonitoring reports).
Complete the biomonitoring data by using camera traps in Iyondji
The survey combining recces and transects was done in Iyondji in May 2016 and the key results revealed that the northern part is a hotspot of bonobos while human activities dominated the rest of the reserve. Thus, this survey did not give satisfaction according to the aims defined, that’s why to complete the biomonitoring data, we decided to set camera traps. This activity goes in the purpose of improving the management effectiveness of this reserve. In 2016, Dr Tetsuya Sakamaki did the same study with 20 camera traps according to a sampling plan of 2 km x 2 km grids (Sakamaki et al., 2016). The general aim of this survey is to complete the data on the ecological status of the reserve in order to improve its management. Systematic random sampling was used to set camera traps at Iyondji community Bonobo Reserve. Sampling design was generated using ArcGIS 10.4, using fishnet tool. Centroids were generated to set camera traps. The Sampling approach used here is Random or systematic placement of cameras two by two kilometre grids over the preselected study sites on the reserve, 19 Reconyx® HyperFire HC 500™ and 15 Cuddeback Digital® camera-traps in suitable areas including game paths or bais within the pre-selected square grid. To protect the cameras from theft, all cameras will be placed in bear-safe protective shields and locked against the tree. For the ants, we will draw around the camera and on the bear-safe with the magic crayon. To protect the cameras against excessive moisture, cameras came with silica gel beads.
Overall, 31 camera-traps were deployed in the northern part of the reserve. One camera was stolen (the belt of the camera cuddeback is not more secured) by the villagers from Ilongo
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 (Ikela). The cameras ran 296 trap-days (the sum of the number of days that each camera remained active). 30434 photos have been taken, besides the redundant photos from Cuddeback Digital. Of these, 404 photos have captured animal species what represent 0.77% of photos with animal species. But we have to notice that there were not many species, we had a repetition of scenes of the same animal species. The rain and the wind occasioned more photos without animals since they were taking pics of any sequence of moving leaves and each droplet of the rain. By the way, we noted also the effect that the cameras made a few time in the field. Therefore, the data were not enough to run statistical analysis. In this survey, the camera traps captured the following species: Atilax paludinosus, Panthera pardus, Uromanis tetradactyla, Potamochoerus porcus, Philantomba monticola, Cephalophus nigrifrons, Cephalophus sylvicultor, Cephalophus callipygus, Cephalophus dorsalis, Crycetomys emini, Elephantulus sp and Guttera gumifera.
In comparison with the results of 2015, we had fewer species as the cameras did not take enough time in the field. Also, this is partly due to the raining season. We had more empty photos, we noted also that Reconyx gave the best results than Cuddeback digital (Cfr. MOV2.2.3 Biomonitoring reports).
Technical and financial support to CoCosi
During the period AWF has actively provided technical and financial support to organize CoCoSi in the both landscapes (Lomako and Iyondji). On the occasion of its 13th edition the Coordination Committee’s Site (CoCoSi) held a workshop from 13th to 14th September 2017 at Lingunda, AWF took advantage to gather all stakeholders in purpose to work on Operational Plan draft for 2018. Through this activity several recommendations have been formulated requesting the both local communities (Lomako and Bongandanga) to submit each one a community project which will be submitted for examination and then funded. In the same context, another 14th edition Coordination Committee’s Site (CoCoSi) of RFLY has been held by AWF which gathered more than 30 attendees among which national institution, provincial ministers of Tshuapa, private sector (Forestry Industry of Congo), officials (Police) and civil society. The meeting’s purpose aimed to share ideas on management participative decision of RFLY for 2019. As results obtained, the outlines of development and management plan are known by all stakeholders before the next popularization after approval of the Minister of environment; the concept “Technical Operational Unit” has been presented and the attendees comprehended the scope for its implementation, etc. At the end of meeting AWF collected different recommendations such as: Building capacity of administrative agents of Befale and Bongandanga as well as building capacity for provincial agents of the Minister of Environment of Tshuapa and Mongala on nature conservation laws; sanctions imposed on ecogards involved in wildlife traffic; disseminate the alternative activities for conservation to the benefit of local communities (Cfr. MOV2.2.4 Lomako COCOSI Report and MOV2.2.5 Iyondji COCOSI Report).
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 STRATEGY 4: ENHANCE LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PROSECUTION
Key Result 4.1 Enforcement of the application of wildlife laws strengthened
The progress has been remarkable related to law enforcement and fight against poaching in the MLW landscape. AWF through his Jurisrtale partner has developed almost 9 relevant activities which each of them provided the expected results as described below:
Enquiries, investigations and surveillance of at least 3 markets places especially in Boende, Djolu and Mbandaka with a view to discourage wild traffic.
Actions carried out in Boende enabled to reach specifically 3 markets spots (Bosongo, Beth, Bokuka) situated at more or less 25 km from Boende city the long of Tshuapa river. Additionally, certain areas of Boende presenting high wild traffic have been reached such as Lotutu, Boende 2, Nsele and Pays-bas as well as ports of maman Ekila and Zaïre Shell. The second place visited was in Djolu.
Support arrests of poachers, traffickers and seizure of wildlife products with an active participation of the national services of control (Police, Directorate General of Migration, the Directorate General of Customs, ICCN, etc.).
As results obtained in Mbandaka and Boende, the ICCN arrested 4 poachers, and Police arrested 2 poachers. And then in 24th, October 2017 a poacher arrested at Lomako along Isandja source. In 20th of October 2017 a trafficker arrested at Boende and seizure of 2,5 kg of ivory. In 23th of October seizure of 2 monkeys and 1 antelope cephalophus dorsalis and arrest of woman trafficker at Lotulu. The specimens came from Bokava village, Djera sector, Boende territory. In 30th October seizure of magistrate monkey at Bosongo market. It was a specimen came from Bokava village, Djera sector, Boende territory. In 18th December arrest of poacher in Lomako and at RFLY arrest of poacher called IFASO ZIMISI Alias NDAYE prosecuted under No RMP 3920/PRO 81/KAB for poaching of protected species. In Djolu and Boende: seizures of 3 bonobos, 1 local manufacture weapon, 1 Colobus angolensis, 1 Cephalophus dorsalis, ballet 00, 2,5 kg of ivory, 2 monkeys and 1 antelope Cephalophus dorsalis, salis, 1 Cercopithecus wolfi, 1bush pig, 1 Cephalophus dorsalis et 1 local manufacture weapon and nylon traps;
Assure follow up of different cases transmitted to the Prosecutor’s office and Court.
The action carried out enabled to figure out that 6 cases are in process at High Court and Prosecutor Office level, especially: RMP 3920/PRO 81/KAB, arrest at RFLY, M. IFASO IFASO ZIMISI alias NDAYE for poaching of protected species. The case sets at Prosecutor’s Office, however, the accused obtained pre-trial. RP 119 (RMP 3681/PRO 84/KAM) poacher arrested in 24th October 2017 at Lomako: The case sets at High Court of Boende. RMP 3342/PRO 90/ MUK): In 20th of October 2017 seizure of 2,5Kg of ivory. RP 128 (RMP 3682/PRO85/KAM): In 23th of October 2017 Mrs JL, woman bush meat seller
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 in Boende central market, has been arrested by the High Court of Boende. In 30th of October 2017, the seizure of Magistrate monkey and the case is still under examination at Police of Boende and then transmitted at Prosecutor’s Office. PV 07/ICCN/RFLY/DEL.3/BIA/2017: In 18th of December 2017 arrest of poacher in Lomato for poaching with local manufacture weapon. In 19th of December 2017 the case has been received by the Prosecutor’s Office of Boende High Court. These actions encouraged the Public Prosecutor's Office and the High Court to engage in the dismantling of wildlife crime networks in the MLW landscape.
Keep visit in the prisons and custodies at least once semester
During the period 12 visits have been organized in Boende: 4 in Boende prison, 6 at Amigo Public Prosecutor’s Office, 2 at Police custodies. These visits conducted in purpose to make sure the conditions of inmates accordingly to legal procedures established.
Produce and broadcast 2 programmes on wildlife crime.
A total of 9 broadcasts, which 2 while reporting period, were produced and broadcasted on Boende RTB from 12th to 20th June. The local communities have been sensitized on wildlife crime.
Produce and broadcast 4 newsletters on wildlife issues within the MLW landscape through partner’s websites.
In total 100 newsletters produced and disseminated in Kinshasa, Mbandaka, Boende and Djolu. Juristrale Facebook’s page account 5000 subscribers which receive news related to the activities.
Carry out 3 awareness campaigns in target settings
The activity enabled to conduct 3 awareness campaigns in target places especially Police, FARDC, markets, craftsmen’s operating with the specimen’s species, with a view to fight against wildlife crime in Djolu, Boende and Mbandaka. As results obtained: In 27th of December 2017 awareness activities to the benefit of bush meat sellers of Boende and 13th of June 2018 the awareness’s activities to the benefit of women bush meat sellers of Djolu. In 27th of June 2018 awareness activity on enforcement of diverse wildlife laws to the benefit of more than 80 women bush meats sellers belonging to Boende market. In 28th of May 2018 awareness campaign in margin of Site Coordination Committee of Lingunda. Finally, 600 to 700 persons whose 52 women bush meats sellers have been sensitized on biodiversity conservation as well as protected species.
Produce and reproduce 3 tools for popularizing laws and sensitization (brochures, codes) The activity reached to produce 3 types of documents such as: 3 newsletters, law No 14/003 related to conservation nature as well as poster of protected species at different campaigns.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Support officials of Mbandaka, Boende, Lisala and Djolu in drafting reports of the cases to be transmitted to Prosecutor’s Office at least once per site.
According to this activity, 6 supports have been brought to ICCN agents during the interviews of the prisoners related to the cases: RMP 3920/PRO 81/: Arrest at REFLY, M. IFASO IFASO ZIMISI alias NDAYE for poaching of protected species. The case sets at Precursor’s Office in 6th Avril 2018; RMP 3920/PRO 81/KAB: Arrest at REFLY, M. IFASO IFASO AMISI alias NDAYE, for poaching of protected species. The case sets at Prosecutor’s Office in 6th April 2018. RP 119 (RMP 3681/PRO 84/KAM): poacher arrested in 24th October 2017 in Lomako, etc. (MOV2.3.7 JURISTRALE Quartely and Annual Reports on law enforcement).
EVENTS RELATED TO ENVIRONMENT AND NATURE CONSERVATION
The performance period was punctuated by the events held across the country to encourage good environmental practices and nature conservation. It is in this context that AWF has actively participated in several events organized in the MLW landscape and out of the landscape as described below:
. World Environment day
AWF has celebrated the World Environment day in the MLW landscape organizing multiple activities along with provincial authorities of Tshuapa and the student of Ilima primary school. The activities organized for the day aimed at alerting on issues affecting the planet as well as raise awareness on action to be taken to protect environment. The students of Madina conservation school in Ilima organized a cultural day with songs, poems and plays based on the theme of the day and set up a nursery in the surrondings of the school, guided visit to the field of seeds propagation and reforestation executed by the Governor of Tshuapa. While provincial authorities attending the event in Boende, Tshuapa demonstrated their will in promoting environmental protection actions for the sustainable development of the ecosystem. Provincial authorities visited AWF seeds multiplication field of healthy cuttings of manioc. The ceremony ended up with her Excellency Madam the Governor of the province, the ministers of environment and agriculture and other provincial authorities planting trees as a symbol of the province's adhesion to conservation efforts.
. International Earth day
International Earth day is celebrated every 22nd of April of each year. For this occasion AWF has been invited to take part to the 3rd edition of the International Earth day organized by Green team (Green team network within universities) under the topic “One city, 12 billion needs to satisfy, protect the future of your city” held at the Université Protestante au Congo (UPC) of Kinshasa.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 . Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora Initiative of the Minister of Environment and sustainable development, AWF has been invited to attend a working session, held on the 12th of April, on reserve allocated to DRC exploitation of grey Parrot, with as a goal to enable the DRC to market parrot’s species in the country.
. International Day of Forests
Every 21st of March the world celebrates the International Day of Forests. This Edition, organized under the theme “Forests and Energy”, AWF DRC took advantage of this important day to sensitize its staffs on the topic “The importance of forests and the benefits that could be drawn from it”
. Conference and Exhibitions “Woman and Environment”
In the context of celebrating International Woman Day, AWF has been invited to participate at the conference organized by Green Team Network and Cali Ladies Foundation on the topic “Woman is for the society what that the Earth is for Humanity”. The 2th edition enabled to express the similarity that exists between the role played by women in our society and the environmental contributions to the humanity. Emphasizing on woman’s actions committed to sustainable development, environmental protection as well as climate change issues in DRC in purpose of inspiring the future generation of woman to be engaged in this action.
. World Wildlife Day
In 2017, AWF celebrated World Wildlife Day along with its consortium members namely JURISTRALE, REFADD, IITA as well as ICCN in the Tshuapa province under the theme “Listen to the Youth’s Voice”. This message particularly addressed to today’s Youth and Tomorrow’s Leaders, because each generation has the responsibility to protect the Fauna and Flora for the benefit of future generation. AWF and consortium partners took advantage to raise awareness on the biodiversity potential in the MLW landscape as well as ways and means for implementation to assure conservation and sustainable management.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 2. PROGRESS TOWARDS NATIONAL REDD+ STRATEGIES/ACTION PLANS (7 PILLARS OF DRC`S NATIONAL REDD+ STRATEGY) From October 2017 to September 2018, AWF implemented various activities to address relevant pillars of the DRC REDD+ strategic framework listed below: Pillar: Agriculture The objective of this pillar is to reduce the negative impacts of agriculture on forests and to contribute to food security and economic growth.
Pillar: Land Management and Planning Land use planning is critical to achieving sustainable conservation and economic impacts. The MLW landscape contains vast tracks of primary forest that are threatened due to deforestation and degradation resulting from the expansion of agricultural activities needed to feed a growing population.
Pillar: Governance This pillar aims at ensuring good governance of the REDD+ process necessary for its effective implementation in a transparent, responsible, pragmatic, sustainable and equitable manner, inclusive of all stakeholders. To facilitate transparency, accountability, AWF engaged structures on the ground.
Pillar: Forests To mitigate the impact of deforestation, forest degradation, and the subsequent contribution these conditions have on climate change, AWF and partners engaged 3 communities and results in 7 CFCLs.
Pillar: Land Tenure Within the DRC, land tenure rights are a highly contentious and legally tenuous issue for women and minorities. AWF expanded the participatory mapping process in the CBNRM areas and CADJOBE REDD+ area, and collaborated with communities to validate the micro-zone boundaries. During the reporting period, AWF worked with xx communities and xx local, provincial and national authorities to define and clarify xx issues of land tenure and related governance capacity issues.
Pillar: Demography This pillar is aimed at working towards (1) controlling rapid population growth to reduce pressure on forest ecosystems and (2) having access to information and family planning services in the whole territory. On the later, access to information on family planning was improved and there are positive effects but it will be necessary to conduct an ex-post evaluation to provide the evidence base.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 3. EXPLANATION OF DEVIATION FROM APPROVED FY18 BENCHMARKS Some activities were delayed in their performances. This delay was largely due to the resignation of the former COP and the time spent internally to evaluate the level of execution of activities upon departure. All late activities have been reprogrammed and completed on time.
The activity " Engage private sector operators that transit the Maringa, Lopori, Lulonga and Bolombo rivers to ferry agriculture products and other goods to Basankusu, Mbandaka and Kinshasa " has not been carried out. This activity was planned for the period from May to July 2018. However, it could not be carried out following a case of force majeure due to the Ebola virus in the zone since mid-May 2018. Indeed, contacts had already been initiated with shipowners (ELAN) and the TMB Mbandaka Bank to facilitate the granting of micro- credits. However, because of the presence of this virus in Mbandaka, we could not go there again, nor the shipowners to transport from Mbandaka to the MLW. NB: It was not until 25 July that UNICEF relayed information on the end of the virus in the DRC: https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/ebola-outbreak-ends-democratic-republic-congo/34577
It should also be mentioned that AWF could not sell the boat Moise as suggested in his plan. The sales process was launched at the end of 2017, but failed. The selected firm could not honor its commitments as a result of economic constraints. Thus AWF solicited from USAID in its closeout plan the property of the boat for its future activities in MLW.
4. EXPLANATION OF VARIATION FROM APPROVED WORKPLAN The approved work plan served as basis for implementation in the field without any change in activities and implementation methods.
5. MANAGEMENT CHANGES, PARTNERING ARRANGEMENTS AND BUDGET ALLOCATIONS The Chief of Party (CoP) for the program transitioned out of AWF employment towards the end of the period under review and recruitment of an interim CoP was initiated.
The former senior project officer resigned in April and was replaced in June.
6. LINKS TO OTHER USG AGENCIES United States Forest Service (USFS) AWF continues to maintain a collaborative relationship with the USFS, engaging on LUP activities.
USFWS AWF received funding from USFWS for work in Bili Uele.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 7. LESSONS LEARNED Facilitating field-based, in-person meetings between provincial and political authorities and MLW landscape actors increased the former’s level of engagement and meaningful support of personnel and activities and helped mitigate conflicts.
8. SUCCESS STORIES
From grandfather to father and from father to son: When the Conservation of Nature becomes a family affair in Lomako, in the DRC
Every parent dreams of seeing their children grow and prosper. Some anxious to see their family businesses last through time, prepare their children to take over and perpetuate the 'family business', so what's more normal than bequeath his inheritance to his children. Whether it is a simple passing of genes, a culture, a
Iyambe Belvie_Iyema Tracker (01/2018) tradition or something as important as material and Photo credit: C. Ilanga goods or a business.
In the Maringa Lopori Wamba landscape, there is a whole other type of knowledge that is now transmitted through the ages. The conservation of nature in the Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve is now a social and cultural heritage bequeathed from generation to generation and has become a family affair.
In the Lomako Yokokala faunal reserve, more precisely, at 15km from the Lomako river in the Iyema camp where AWF is proceeding with the development of bonobo habituation already well advanced to welcome tourists and researchers at the site, it is increasingly more common to meet this generation converted into protector that are fighting today for the preservation of their habitats.
‘‘I inherited this notion of conservation from my father and decided to follow his footstep as a local guide, I am the third in my family involve in this work.... This job allows us not only to protect our forests and its rich ecosystem, but also gives us the means of subsistence that we need for our families’’, has thus entrusted Dupont Bomposo one of the team leaders of the Iyema trackers.
Far from being a unique case, Iyambe Belvie, of his name, is also himself one of the sons of these local communities who have learned the work from their fathers. Belvie works in the reserve as a local guide and like the fifteen other guides, possesses a good knowledge of the region and of all the local species of flora and fauna.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 Married and a father of 3 children, Belvie is convinced that in addition to contributing to the protection of the biodiversity of Lomako, his work is also an opportunity for him to help his family '’Since my father passed away, I became the one on whom the whole family, with the money I earn from this work, I can support my wife in different small businesses and I as far as possible help the members of my extended family’’.
Belvie in 2011 received basic trainings in bonobo habituation, wildlife data collection, and in the strategy of welcoming visitors or researchers and has been doing this job for almost eight years now. This training that I have received thanks to AWF as allow me to acquire more knowledge about my work and has taught me the importance of preserving the ecosystem. I am now able to apply the skills I gained all along and that I am still learning to protect the rich biodiversity of my regions and to sensitize those who destroy the habitat whether voluntarily or by lack of knowledge. ‘‘My father who was also a local guide years ago, like me today, was able to send me to school thanks to this work. Now that I am financially secure, and with the 100$ I received as a base salary I am able today to offer my daughters an education that many other girls here in the village do not have access to and I wish to be able in a near future to build a house, educate my daughters and support my family as possible as I can’’.
From fathers to sons, Iyema's trackers are part of this new generation who are committed to protecting the resources of their lands, these guides represent the local communities and are well integrated into the activities of Congolese Institute for Conservation of Nature (ICCN) and also help in the work of bonobo habituation in Iyema, essential to the construction of a solid tourist product for the reserve.
African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) through its CARPE/CAFEC program in DRC funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) supported the Congolese Institute for Conservation of Nature (ICCN) in the creation, development and management of protected areas in the Maringa-Lopori-Wamba landscape. The Lomako-Yokokala Faunal Reserve (RFLY) is one of the main protected areas of the landscape and is a key refuge for rare species, including the bonobo, the forest elephant, the Congolese peacock and the giant pangolin.
Women-led enterprises drive sustainable forest management in DRC
Apart from being one of the last remaining habitats for critically endangered bonobos, the dense tropical forests of Maringa-Lopori-Wamba are a valuable resource for communities. To feed their families and earn a living, people settled in the forest clear small sections to expand their farms or cut trees to make charcoal. Some even resort to hunting as the illicit trade of bush meat grows across the landscape. As the main economic actors in the rural household, women engage in these activities at the expense of biodiversity. However, women are also the mothers of the landscape, able to instill new values that instead save wildlife and habitats.
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USAID/CAFEC; No.:AID-660-A-13-00009 ANNUAL REPORT, FY18 LANDSCAPE 9/MLW OCTOBER 1, 2017 – SEPTEMBER 29, 2018
Apart from reducing pressure on the forest and wildlife as a source of income, sustainable enterprises ensure that the women who are leading the way receive financial benefits to reinvest in the development of their communities. In Basankusu, African Wildlife Foundation launched a Center for the Empowerment of Women and Environmental Education to turn this demographic into skilled artisans who support conservation. Based on the success of the core incubator group, a similar center has been set up in Djolu with plans to extend into Bongandanga.
Over a three-month period, women enrolled at the centers can learn either cutting-and- sewing or artisanal soap-making. With support from the African Women Network for Sustainable Development, over 100 women across both centers have been trained in tailoring and over 80 are skilled in artisanal soap-making. Regularly, students will visit learn at both centers to ensure that new perspectives are exchanged between these key areas in the Maringa-Lopori-Wamba landscape.
Changing the culture One of the women who received this cutting-and-sewing training is now able to train her fellow students. Those trained in artisanal soap-making are already making profits by selling the soap they produce. In Djolu, AWF will be also providing literacy classes to 55 women.
The Center for the Empowerment of Women and Environmental Education is helping cement a long history of biodiversity protection in this rich landscape. For many years, AWF has worked with the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation to improve the ecological monitoring capacity of its eco-guards. AWF has also developed participatory forest management plans to control deforestation in the landscape. Extensive socio-economic surveys showed that introducing new farming methods and alternative sources of income incentivize community conservation, and in 2006, the Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve was gazetted as a protected area.
More than a decade since AWF led the creation of the reserve, the community forest has started to repopulate with wild fauna. AWF continues to support conservation-friendly enterprises through the funding of ecotourism activities, particularly those driven by the women from various villages in the region. The Bonobo Mamas Association, created in 2017, targets women already engaged in conservation — the eco-guards of the Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve and the wives of male eco-guards. With access to a platform and funding to develop enterprises from natural resource management, these women join the trainees from the Center for the Empowerment of Women and Environmental Education as empowered custodians of the rich landscape. The newly trained tailors and soap-makers not only protect Maringa-Lopori-Wamba’s wildlife and habitats, they also advancing gender equality and equity.
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9. COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH Print
By mid-FY18, AWF was quite successful in communicating the AWF-led CAFEC consortium’s program. AWF utilized both digital and print mediums in the organization’s outreach efforts. Examples of these outreach activities are listed, below:
AWF BLOGS
Strengthening bonobo conservation through satellite technology Access to agricultural markets restores biodiversity in Lomako Advancing community conservation in rural DRC Making forest concessions work for local communities
These broadcasts reflect AWF’s broader engagement to conservation as a cause:
Website
Channel Date Title Link Environews 31 march Tourisme : l’accueil www.environews-rdc.org/2018/03/31/tourisme-laccueil-des-touristes-au- RDC 2018 des touristes au cœur coeur-des-discussions-a-kinshasa
des discussions à kinshasa
TV and Radio
Channel Date Show Title Frequency RTNC 19 January 2018 News Bulletin Atelier de restitution des résultats de micro zonage dans le For one day/ with paysage Maringa Lopori Wamba au niveau National replay Top Congo 31 March 2018 News Bulletin Atelier sur le développement des meilleures pratiques dans For one day/ with la stratégie « d’accueil des meilleures pratiques dans la replay stratégie « d’accueil des touristes » dans la RFLY RTNC 07 April 2018 Carrefour Atelier sur le développement des meilleures pratiques dans For one day/ with touristique la stratégie « d’accueil des meilleures pratiques dans la replay stratégie « d’accueil des touristes » dans la RFLY Top Congo 03 April 18 News Bulletin Atelier sur le développement des meilleures pratiques dans For one day/ with la stratégie « d’accueil des meilleures pratiques dans la replay stratégie « d’accueil des touristes » dans la RFLY
Channel Date Show Title Frequency RTNC 25 Mai 2018 News Bulletin Atelier de restitution sur le développement des meilleures Before and during Boende pratiques dans la stratégie « accueil des touristes » dans la the event/ with Radio Télé réserve de Faune de Lomako Yokokala province de la replay Boende Tshuapa RTNC 24 Juillet 2018 News Bulletin Atelier sur la conciliation de la vision d’AWF dans le Before and during Boende paysage Maringa Lopori Wamba aux priorités de the event/ with développement local de la province de la Tshuapa replay
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Other AWF publication
CARPE monthly Update Monthly newsletter to consortium MLW annual report
Networking
AWF organize a field trip to Lomako accompanied with its partner ICCN (Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature), the Ministry of Tourism, Lola ya Bonobo and a private tour operator to understand the reality and the context of tourism development around the Conservation of bonobos in DRC necessary for the good launch of the Chimelong Ecotourism project in the RFLY. Chimelong through its partner the World Tourism Organization has granted the Ministry of Tourism funding to develop a sustainable tourism model based on best practices, in synergy with the conservation of bonobos, involving The authorities of the protected areas, the Congolese Institute of Conservation of Nature (ICCN) and the local communities. AWF chooses as executive partner implements since January in the RFLY the present financing.
AWF help co-organize with ICCN a workshop for the validation of a General Management Plan of the RFLY (Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve). Arican Wildlife Foundation, which in its strategy aims to strengthen the management capacity of protected areas of the landscape has committed to work with ICCN for the elaboration and implementation of a development and Management plan of the RFLY confronted with multiformal threats related to anthropogenic activities, including poaching, artisanal fishing, human facilities, and slash and burn agriculture.
After the first mission organized in the beginning of the year 2018 in Lomako to understand the reality and the context of tourism development around the conservation of bonobos in DRC necessary for the good launch of the Chimelong Ecotourism project in the Lomako Yokokala Faunal Reserve (RFLY); AWF under the lead of the Ministry of Tourism has organized two workshops on the development of best practices in the strategy of welcoming tourists in the RFLY that took place in Kinshasa followed by a restitution workshop to local authorities and key stakeholders in Boende. These workshops have allowed discussion on issues such as the threats and opportunities of tourism revival, the strategy of welcoming tourists and their free and secure circulation in the DRC in general and in the RFLY in particular, this in anticipation to the pilot tourist experience planned for September 2018 in the reserve.