Fire is a risk for young restoration sites in Congo. Our local partner tackles it with a mix of short-term protective measures and long-term solutions.

In the short term, firebreaks are cleared around the planting sites to slow down fires and facilitate the forest rangers' actions. Fire guards monitor the sites, especially during the dry season, to alert the community and protect the forest in case of fire.

In the long term, the focus is on the forest itself and on the communities around it. Planting a diverse mix of native species makes restored forests more resilient, as the variation in species prevents the canopy from forming one continuous fuel layer and slows down the spread of fire. Through community assemblies, local community members take part in decisions about the restoration sites, creating ownership and a direct interest in protecting the forest. Sensitisation activities raise awareness of the risks of uncontrolled fire.

Our partner also lobbies with the county chiefs to implement rules on the use of fire, and works with local community members on a shared calendar that restricts when and where fire can be used. Because these rules are developed together with the community and backed by local authorities, they are more likely to be respected in practice.