In just one month, from October 26th to 28th, the Republic of Congo will host the summit of the world’s three tropical forest basins (Congo, Amazon, and Borneo-Mekong). The event is expected to draw between 1,500 and 2,000 representatives from riverine communities to the Congolese capital, along with political leaders, experts, and donors.
The march commenced early in the morning from the Gare Square, not far from the Prime Minister’s Office, under a clear sky. Hundreds of youth, most dressed in white, embarked on a roughly five-kilometer journey, led by Chris Mburu, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, and Precieux Massouémé, a representative of the Brazzaville International Leadership Youth Forum (BILYF).
Armed with gloves, they diligently collected waste along their route, partaking in an environmental cleanup effort. Precieux Massouémé explained the purpose of the march: “This march is part of the youth’s development, awareness, and ownership of environmental issues, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
This initiative comes at a time when several neighborhoods in the capital are grappling with overflowing household waste bins, and at times resorting to burning refuse, thereby contributing to air pollution.
Chris Mburu commended this cleanup operation, stating, “It is truly commendable to witness the youth actively engaging and supporting both the country and the United Nations in advocating for environmental protection.”
The summit on the three tropical forest basins holds immense significance for global environmental conservation efforts. This demonstration of youth-led environmental stewardship exemplifies the commitment to address pressing environmental challenges and underscores the importance of involving younger generations in shaping a sustainable future.