Voix du Paysan: Educating and Informing Citizens for Social and Climate Justice
On Friday, November 28, 2025, as part of the #StopEACOP campaign, our team visited the Nyabushongo market to engage with firewood and charcoal vendors who are directly affected by increasing pressure on natural resources. The visit allowed for open dialogue on the threats posed by the EACOP oil project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in terms of deforestation, climate degradation, and health risks to local communities. The goal was clear: to inform, listen, and build a collective understanding of the stakes.
Listening to Local Realities and Responding to Vendors’ Concerns
Wood and charcoal sellers shared their daily struggles and concerns about the potential consequences of oil exploitation. While acknowledging their economic reliance on these activities, they raised critical questions. This exchange opened a constructive conversation on possible alternatives, including clean energy, community reforestation, and sustainable practices that reduce environmental pressure while securing livelihoods.
Strengthening Community Engagement to Protect Threatened Lands
Because protecting nature begins with those who rely on it every day, we reaffirmed our commitment to local communities. Raising awareness, informing, and supporting alternative initiatives are essential steps in making the voices of threatened territories heard and building collective resistance against destructive projects. Together with the people of Nyabushongo and many other communities, we will continue to deliver a clear and determined message: united, we say #StopEACOP.
The Editorial Team
