Environment Protection
“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
The depletion of forest cover through tree cutting and bush fires had resulted in scarcity of drinking water, rapid decline in agricultural productivity and biodiversity, and high vulnerability to natural disasters such as soil erosion in Kandale and its surroundings. The landslide that occurred in 2017, which blocked Kandale’s access to its main drinking water source, is one of the many examples.
Raising Awareness
REVE Kandale initiated an awareness campaign beginning in 2010 on environmental issues by working closely with local village chiefs to educate members of the community. The impact of this awareness has been tremendous as illustrated by massive participation of the community in tree planting, surveillance of the forest against abusive logging and bushfire, and involvement in nursery activities.
Community Participation
Awareness for native trees and fruit trees has been initiated by the community. To strengthen capacity, a training was offered by a volunteer agronomist. More and diverse trees are expected to be planted once seedlings are ready.
Biodiversity Reforestation
One of the outcomes of the tree planting initiative has been the restoration of biodiversity with the return of wildlife including snakes as well as the occurrence of insects, especially caterpillars, which are a source protein for the local population.
To-date, six species of caterpillars long lost have returned due tree planting and effective anti-bushfire campaign since 2010.
In the years since reforestation of an area near Kandale began in 2011, a variety of trees and underbrush have flourished and been nurtured by local “forest-keepers.” Today, this rich environment is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and birds. In 2017, the return of the caterpillars — a nutritious and delicious staple of the local diet as well as a source of income—was a surprising and welcome sight. It provided solid evidence of the benefits of protecting the environment around Kandale.
One fruit a day keeps the doctor away
Children no longer walk far to collect mushrooms.
More fruits than can be consumed locally.
Watch video
REVE Kandale: Mwatha Gutumbuga Hubert Nvula-Ku, deputy coordinator of REVE Kandale and headmaster at Lycee Gin'a Gisanga in Kandale, Democratic Republic of the Congo discusses the impact REVE Kandale has had in the community in a relatively short time - video (French).
