The Regional Postgraduate School of Integrated Management of Tropical Forests and Territories (ERAIFT) has successfully concluded its 2025 Integrated Field Training Programme in Planning and Integrated Development (STADI). For nearly three months, 40 students from seven countries of the COMIFAC region were immersed in the heart of Odzala-Kokoua-Lossi National Park (PNOKL), one of the oldest and largest protected areas in Africa.
STADI 2025 enabled these future managers of tropical forests and protected areas to acquire hands-on expertise through a systemic and interdisciplinary approach. Participants were trained in modern tools for data collection and analysis. Thematic modules focusing on governance, biodiversity, value chains, gender, and human rights were delivered by international experts.
The learners produced geospatial databases, participatory maps, and SWOT analyses (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), all of which will contribute to a deeper understanding of the socio-ecological challenges facing PNOKL. Interactions with local communities, park management authorities (African Parks Network), and local government representatives helped strengthen partnerships and promote inclusive natural resource management.
Despite certain constraints, this field training demonstrated the critical importance of community engagement and methodological innovation.
ERAIFT intends to sustain this partnership with PNOKL and its partners, while enhancing the value of the data collected through scientific publications. A set of recommendations was formulated to strengthen local capacities, improve communication infrastructure, and foster more participatory governance.
STADI 2025 was made possible thanks to the close collaboration between ERAIFT, the Congolese authorities – notably Her Excellency Ms. Rosalie Matondo, Minister of Forest Economy – the Odzala-Kokoua-Lossi Foundation, the African Parks Network, and financial and technical partners, including the European Union, AGRINATURA, and PARTICIP. ERAIFT wishes to express its profound gratitude to all of them and to extend its sincere appreciation to the European Union and AGRINATURA for their renewed trust.
