Supporting cross-border cooperation to preserve the TRIDOM landscape in Central Africa

Context

The Dja-Odzala-Minkébé (TRIDOM) protected area complex spans 191,541 square kilometers across Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo and Gabon, marked as a priority among the Congo Basin’s landscapes by the Central African Forest Commission’s (COMIFAC) convergence plan. The TRIDOM landscape is made up of 24 per cent protected areas, 65 per cent forest concessions and 11 per cent for forestry, agriculture, housing and infrastructure.

Covering about 97 per cent forest with very rich biodiversity, TRIDOM is crucial for climate regulation and water management. However, rising land demand prompts conflicts among conservationists, foresters, miners, developers, and local populations. Despite abundant resources like wood, iron ore, and gold, poverty prevails due to inadequate infrastructure and market connections.

Objective

The increased active participation of public, private and civil society entities in ensuring the long-term development and preservation of the TRIDOM landscape has been solidified.

Approach

Within the TRIDOM landscape, the project takes decisive steps to promote biodiversity conservation and long-term development through key strategies:

• Assisting Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo, and Gabon in forming cross-border cooperation agreements for long-term development and nature preservation.
• Enhancing exchange between different parties involved to explore how protecting nature aligns with socio-economic development in TRIDOM.
• Supporting private companies in voluntary biodiversity conservation and socio-economic growth within TRIDOM forest areas, focusing on varied business models and efficient land management for financial stability.
• Collaborating with local communities and municipalities to develop and implement projects for the long-term use of natural resources.

Last update: February 2024