Transforming the Congo Basin: A Green Corridor for the Future

Inspired by the success of Virunga National Park, the Green Corridor, launched by President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, aims to establish the largest protected tropical forest area in the world.

Spanning over 554,270 km²—an area the size of France—this ambitious initiative integrates nature conservation, economic development, and community protection. What sets it apart is its participatory management model, which actively involves local communities in safeguarding biodiversity while fostering sustainable livelihoods.

Photo credit: The Presidency of the Republic Democratic of Congo

Our forests are an essential defence against climate change. Faced with clearly identified problems and solutions within reach, it is crucial to act concretely. It is imperative that improving the socio-economic conditions of local communities, which play a key role in preserving these forests, be placed at the heart of global governance priorities.

His Excellency Mister Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo President of the Democratic Republic of Congo

Safeguarding Vital Ecosystems

The Heart of Congo Basin

The tropical rainforest is a critical ally in addressing the global climate crisis. To safeguard this vital ecosystem, 554,270 km² of protected area spanning 2,400 km has been established, focused on nature conservation and supporting the transition to a green economy. This includes more than 285,000 km² of primary tropical forest, including 67,000 km² of peatland, crucial for capturing and sequestering millions of tons of CO2. Home to 31.5 million people who rely on its resources for survival, the conservation effort not only protects biodiversity but also ensures the sustainability of livelihoods and the planet’s climate resilience.

A New Economy

Powered By Nature

To realise its vision, the Green Corridor is working to mobilise $1 billion in private sector investments to drive sustainable development. With $100 million already secured, the focus is on three key sectors: agriculture, energy, and transport. By 2030, the initiative aims to create 500,000 new jobs, driving a significant reduction in violence through economic growth, and process one million tonnes of agricultural produce in North Kivu for transport to Kinshasa, building a vital link between the Kivus and the capital.

A Model for Sustainable Development

Across the Congo Basin

Launched in 2013 by Virunga National Park, the Virunga Alliance unites public authorities, civil society, and the private sector under a shared vision of economic development and nature conservation to protect the Park. By 2030, it aims to generate 105 MW of clean energy, produce 1 million tonnes of agricultural produce, create 100,000 jobs, and restore the rule of law. Focusing on clean energy, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and eco-tourism, the Virunga Alliance has already achieved remarkable progress: nearly 45 MW of green energy has been generated, 25,000 tonnes of crops produced, and over 21,000 jobs created—transforming livelihoods and fostering economic growth in the region. Now, Virunga hopes to expand this impact to the wider Congo Basin.

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