The Republic of Congo has launched a national program to develop its non-timber forest products sector. The program was signed into effect on August 4 in Pointe-Noire by the Congolese government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The ceremony was attended by Rosalie Matondo, the Minister of Forest Economy, and Adama-Dian Barry, the UNDP Resident Representative in Congo. The program aims to make non-timber forest products a key driver of sustainable economic growth. This will be achieved by developing competitive, inclusive, and resilient value chains that can generate wealth, create jobs, and add value to the national economy, while contributing to the transition to a green economy.
The program sets several strategic objectives, including increasing the contribution of non-timber forest products to the country’s gross domestic product through sustainable management, local transformation, and improved marketing. It also aims to structure value chains to improve the sector’s competitiveness in national and international markets.
Social inclusion is a key aspect of the program, which aims to promote decent job creation for young people, women, and vulnerable individuals, while strengthening the income of local communities and indigenous peoples who rely on forest resources for their livelihoods.
According to the program, the development of the non-timber forest products sector is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and the environment. The program’s implementation is expected to contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals and promote the conservation of its forest resources.
Article source: journaldebrazza.com | Image credit: Journal de Brazza
