Multinational - Valorization of African Medicinal Plant for Mainstreaming Entrepreneurship and Environment (VAMPEEM)

The Valorization of African Medicinal Plant for Mainstreaming Entrepreneurship and Environment (VAMPEEM) program is an important contribution that has a positive impact on climate change. Valorization of medicinal plant represents a unique opportunity to implement benefit sharing, GACP guideline from WHO, in the context of preserving and regenerating the ecosystem. The VAMPEEM project will provide the test cases to innovate REDD and AR as required in the Congo Basin.Ecopreneurs will represent a new generation of value-added agricultural entrepreneurs, cultivating and harvesting innovative products, using modern standards while valorizing DRC biodiversity. The program includes: Months 0-6: Set up Phase: Installation of lab and processing equipment, water adduction system, infrastructure to greed the ecopreneurs, internet, train the trainers, project team and staff. Months 6-12: Start training practical training of "cohort A" already trained during current pilot-project, selection of a new cohort of ecopreneurs (cohort B), sensitization of the workers from local communities to their role in the future ecobusinesses, promotion of sustainable environmental management Year 2: Start up of the one year theoretical training (cohort B) and continuing of the practical training: for the 26 candidates successfully graduated (2009). Training in the processing center facility, and preparation of individual/collective business plan Year 3 - 4 (first 6 months): Practical training of cohort B, business mentoring and sustainable practices (cohort A-B), sensitization, and pursing with additional cohorts, improving economic and environmental results. This social innovation will create economic sustenance and give direction to rural communities and indigenous groups. In addition, the ecobusinesses aspect of the VAMPEEM project will enhance social, economic, and environmental adaptive capacities for the communities.