Congo: Forest and Econ. Diversification Project

closed

The objective of the Forest and Economic Diversification Project is to increase the capacity of the Republic of Congo to: (i) promote better implementation of its forestry legislation; and (ii) enhance the policy environment for participation of local communities and the private sector in sustainable forest management and reforestation. There are three components to the project, the first component being capacity building and institutional strengthening of the ministry of sustainable development, forest economy and environment. The project will strengthen the institutional capacity of the ministry in four critical areas: (a) operational and management capacity; (b) reinforcement and implementation of the regulatory framework regarding forestry and nature conservation; (c) environmental management; and (d) sustainable development. The second component is the improving the enabling environment for private sector and smallholder activities in the forest sector. The project will contribute to the definition and establishment of organizational procedures, rules, technologies and socio-economic studies to address knowledge gaps and constraints and assist the government in creating a more favorable environment for appropriate private sector and smallholder investment in forests and agro-forestry. Finally, the third component is the enhancing the participation of local and indigenous communities in forest management.