The Republic of Congo is set to host the inaugural International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation from July 2 to 5, 2024, in Brazzaville. This landmark event, endorsed by the African Union as the ‘African and Global Afforestation Decade,’ aims to consolidate global efforts to combat climate change through extensive afforestation and reforestation initiatives.
This conference is particularly timely, following the sixth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which underscores that climate risks are more severe than previously anticipated, especially for vulnerable African nations. The event seeks to address these challenges by enhancing global forest cover, recognised as a cost-effective and environmentally beneficial solution.
Key objectives outlined in the event’s concept note include developing a global afforestation and reforestation strategy, increasing atmospheric carbon sequestration, preserving habitats and biodiversity, and supporting the production of essential forest goods and services. The strategy will integrate technical, scientific, and financial elements to foster international cooperation in combating climate change.
The conference will attract a diverse array of participants, including state representatives, regional and sub-regional political and economic organisations, global scientific communities, financial partners, international NGOs, and civil society organisations. Nearly 2,000 participants are expected, highlighting the global commitment to afforestation and reforestation efforts.
Structured into three main components—expert sessions, a ministerial segment, and a summit of Heads of State and Government—the conference will focus on developing resource mobilisation strategies, operationalising recommendations, and securing financing and investment for implementing the outcomes of the Brazzaville conference.
Key presentations will address the current state of afforestation and reforestation, the role of forests in climate change mitigation, innovative scientific solutions, and financing and partnerships. The conference aims to adopt a global declaration on afforestation and reforestation, including integrating the ‘African and Global Decade of Afforestation’ into the United Nations Agenda.
Supported by the African Union and the United Nations Forum on Forests, the conference marks a significant step towards a coordinated global response to climate change. By promoting the expansion of global forest cover and enhancing strategic frameworks for afforestation and reforestation, the event seeks to mitigate climate change impacts and support sustainable development goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
As the world faces the dual challenges of an ongoing economic and financial crisis and increasing demands for forest products, the Brazzaville conference provides a crucial platform for fostering global collaboration and commitment to preserving forests and combating climate change.
