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Mongabay

Local indigenous people get more land in a DRC community forest

In May 2026, the Tshopo province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo granted 31 community forest land titles to local Indigenous and Bantu communities, expanding their legal control over more than a million hectares of forest. This move aims to protect the land from extractive activities and ensure community involvement in any future development. The expansion of secured land in the region supports conservation efforts and aligns with global goals to preserve ecosystems and reduce poverty among Indigenous peoples.

What happened

Local Indigenous communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo received legal land titles for over a million hectares of forest in Tshopo province.

Why it matters

This recognition helps protect the land and livelihoods of Indigenous peoples while reducing deforestation and supporting sustainable development.

Why it belongs here

It shows how empowering local communities to manage their land can lead to better conservation and improved quality of life for people and ecosystems.

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