Maniema: Bangubangu Wamaza Sector Validates Its Local Development Plan and Commits to Sustainable Forest Management
A historic milestone has been achieved in the Bangubangu Wamaza sector, Kabambare Territory (Maniema Province in DRCongo)with the support of the Congo Basin Conservation Society (CBCS) and the Environmental Civil Society, the community has validated its Local Development Plan (LDP) 2025–2030, 5 th septembre 2015, officially marking the beginning of sustainable management of community forests in the region.
The sector chief, Ramazani Kasimu, welcomed this progress, calling it a turning point for local development:
“This is a day that marks the recognition of our forests through good management promoted by CBCS and the environmental civil society of Kabambare. What succeeds today in Wamaza can succeed across the entire Kabambare territory. I congratulate my community for their understanding and acceptance to now work within a framework that respects the law and the collective interest.”
He recalled that in the past, uncontrolled exploitation of forests had led to the loss of precious tree species and weakened the ecosystem. Today, six communities in the administrative entity have committed themselves to responsible and transparent community forest management.
In recent weeks, two major workshops were held: the first on community forestry, and the second on the presentation and validation of the 2025–2030 LDP. According to Mr. Kasimu, these initiatives will provide local communities with a clear roadmap for development over the next five years.
“It is during my administration that this document was drafted and validated. It will serve as a guide for our grassroots entities. I thank civil society and CBCS for their support. I encourage my community to take ownership of this project, as it will bring value to our sector and inspire neighboring territories,” he added.
The sector chief also called on CBCS and partner organizations to remain pragmatic and concrete in their field actions, in order to dispel doubts among some communities that are still hesitant to join the process.
By validating this plan, the Bangubangu Wamaza sector becomes a pilot example of sustainable forest resource management in Maniema. Local communities, now legally and technically empowered, are committed to protecting their natural heritage while benefiting from it for their socio-economic development.
