An acacia tree in a Yangambi plantation. Photo by Axel Fassio/CIFOR-ICRAF

Tree plantations could be a transformative solution for addressing the energy, climate, and biodiversity challenges in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to a recent doctoral thesis by Désiré Katembo Kasekete at the University of Kisangani (UNIKIS). The study identifies key tree species that can provide renewable energy, mitigate climate change, and support biodiversity, offering a comprehensive approach to sustainable development in the region.

Kasekete’s research highlights the potential of fast-growing species such as eucalyptus and acacia as effective sources of biomass energy. These species can be harvested in cycles, ensuring a continuous supply of biomass, which is crucial for regions that struggle with energy access. “These tree species provide a renewable energy source that can reduce dependency on fossil fuels and deliver a more stable and affordable energy supply for rural communities,” said Kasekete.

The importance of biomass energy cannot be overstated in a country where a significant portion of the population relies on traditional biomass for cooking and heating. Plantations of species like Eucalyptus grandis and Acacia auriculiformis offer a renewable alternative that can alleviate pressure on natural forests and reduce deforestation rates. Moreover, these plantations can be managed sustainably to ensure a perpetual supply of energy resources.

In addition to their role in energy production, these tree species are significant for their carbon sequestration potential. By absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide, they can help mitigate climate change, a critical need in the face of increasing global temperatures and extreme weather events. 

Paolo Cerutti, a senior scientist at the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), and unit head of its DRC office, emphasized the importance of the findings. “Once the right species for the right purpose and the right place have been selected with the local users, implementing optimal planting strategies for those species will help maximize climate benefits and significantly contribute to our carbon reduction goals,” he said. 

The ecological benefits of tree plantations extend to soil health as well. Species like Acacia auriculiformis are known to improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, which can enhance the productivity of adjacent agricultural lands. This symbiotic relationship between tree plantations and agriculture can lead to more sustainable land use practices, ultimately benefiting both the environment and local communities.

   An acacia tree plantation in Yangambi, DRC. Photo by Axel Fassio/CIFOR-ICRAF

The practical implications of Kasekete’s research are especially relevant as the DRC faces severe environmental degradation and widespread poverty. His work provides a scientifically grounded framework for policymakers and conservationists aiming to implement tree plantation projects. When integrated with broader land-use planning and community involvement, these ecological tools can be effectively leveraged to support sustainable development in the DRC.

For local communities, the establishment of tree plantations can bring immediate economic benefits. By combining lines of acacia trees with improved agricultural practices, such as intercropping with cassava, farmers can achieve higher yields and generate additional income – thus supporting livelihoods whilst contributing to food security. Over the longer term, as trees mature, they can be harvested for timber or biomass, providing further economic opportunities.

The broader implications of Kasekete’s thesis extend beyond the DRC. As global leaders seek effective strategies to meet climate targets and preserve biodiversity, the insights from this research could inform similar initiatives in other regions facing comparable challenges. The comprehensive approach—combining ecological, economic, and social dimensions—demonstrates the multifaceted benefits of tree plantations. By focusing on practical solutions that deliver energy, climate, and biodiversity benefits, the study provides a hopeful blueprint for sustainable development in the region – and highlights the importance of integrating ecological, economic, and social considerations in environmental planning and policy.

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by the long-standing partnership between CIFOR-ICRAF and the University of Kisangani (UNIKIS), with funding from the European Union. This collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the future of sustainable forest management in the DRC. For over ten years now, this partnership has been a cornerstone for advancing both academic and practical knowledge in forestry and environmental conservation in the country. The partnership has not only facilitated critical research but also supported capacity building in the region. By training local scientists and practitioners, the collaboration ensures that the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable forest management are embedded within the local context. This capacity-building aspect is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of balanced development and environmental initiatives.