Forest Governance in Befale: Assets, Constraints, and Prospects

Abstract

Forest governance represents a major challenge for the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in the territory of Befale, which is endowed with abundant natural resources yet faces significant socio economic and institutional constraints. This study analyzes the strengths, limitations, and prospects of local forest management through a documentary and analytical approach that integrates ecological data (NDVI, climate), legal texts, and institutional reports. The findings reveal substantial ecological potential, notably in relation to non-timber forest products and carbon sequestration, while also highlighting persistent challenges such as land tenure insecurity, weak enforcement of legal frameworks, and dependence on external funding. The discussion underscores the need to strengthen community land rights, promote agroforestry, and integrate Befale into international carbon credit mechanisms. The study concludes that Befale has the potential to serve as a pilot territory for reconciling conservation, development, and social equity, provided that governance becomes more inclusive and transparent.