Mai Ndombe

The Mai Ndombe Project is a conservation initiative in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) that aims to protect 300,000 hectares of rainforest and wetland habitat, home to endangered species like bonobos and forest elephants. This habitat is located within the world's second-largest intact rainforest and some of the most important wetlands on the planet, making its protection critical for both the climate and biodiversity.

The project aims to reduce carbon emissions by preventing deforestation, which is often caused by logging and agricultural practices that can be destructive to the forest. To do this, it plans to stop planned legal deforestation and reduce illegal logging, and also provides alternatives to unsustainable slash and burn agriculture. This helps to reduce local destructive forest pathways and protect the habitat of rare and ecologically valuable species.

In addition to its conservation efforts, the project also focuses on improving the lives of local communities. This includes promoting sustainable agriculture, livestock management, and fishing to enhance food security and nutrition. The project also aims to improve the quality of education and increase access to markets, infrastructure, and healthcare in the region. By addressing these issues, the project hopes to reduce poverty and improve the socio-economic livelihoods of the surrounding communities.