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The implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in the agricultural, agroforestry, and forestry sectors is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by climate change, particularly for vulnerable communities. This project, titled "Women in Action," aims to actively involve Indigenous women and young men in Mwenga, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, to identify their needs, challenges, and opportunities. This initiative is supported by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) in partnership with the Paul Gérin-Lajoie Foundation (PGLF) and implemented by the NGO PIFEVA, Pillar for Vulnerable Active Women in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Context

Climate change directly impacts agricultural and forestry sectors, threatening the food security and livelihoods of rural populations in Mwenga. To address these challenges, it is essential to establish NBS that take into account the realities of Indigenous women and youth, who are often underrepresented in decision-making processes.

Achievements

Several activities have been carried out as part of this initiative:

1. Identification of Demonstration Spaces

A total of 10 spaces, covering 20 hectares (2 hectares per targeted village), have been identified as practical demonstration areas. This process involved 240 participants, including 120 women and 120 men. This gender parity is a significant asset in ensuring equitable representation of voices in the decision-making and action processes.

2. Capacity Building

The 10 facilitators from the identified sites in the 10 targeted villages received capacity building on community needs and local authority engagement. Among these facilitators, 2 were women and 8 were men, reflecting a conscious effort to include women in leadership and facilitation roles. This capacity building is essential to ensure that facilitators can effectively contribute to the implementation of NBS and the management of demonstration spaces.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges

• Access to Funding: Indigenous women and young men face barriers to accessing the funding needed for their projects.
• Awareness and Training: There is a critical need for training and awareness regarding the opportunities provided by NBS and existing funding mechanisms.
• Participation: While progress has been made, challenges remain to ensure meaningful and continuous participation of women and youth.

Opportunities

• Job Creation: NBS can promote job creation in the agricultural and forestry sectors, providing new opportunities for Indigenous women and youth.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Involvement of Indigenous women in NBS can spur innovation and encourage entrepreneurship, particularly in agroecological practices.
• Strengthening Local Capacities: The capacity building of facilitators and communities presents an opportunity to enhance local skills and knowledge.

Conclusion

The participatory identification of the needs, challenges, and opportunities for Indigenous women and young men within the framework of Nature-Based Solutions in Mwenga is a crucial step towards inclusive and sustainable development. By ensuring the participation of all relevant stakeholders, particularly women and youth, we can achieve effective implementation of NBS that address climate challenges and promote the socio-economic development of vulnerable communities. These collective efforts, supported by Global Affairs Canada, the Paul Gérin-Lajoie Foundation, and implemented by the NGO PIFEVA, are essential for building resilient and sustainable systems that benefit society as a whole.