We were delighted to be invited once again by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) to conduct further political economy assessments. In 2018, we undertook comprehensive evaluations of the forest sectors in Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. This time, we updated our assessment of the forestry sector in the Republic of Congo and extended our analysis to include the Gabonese forestry sector.
Our evaluation team consisted of a core Efeca team complemented by an experienced group of in-country consultants in both countries. These consultants conducted interviews with national and other relevant stakeholders, leveraging their extensive local knowledge to ensure that our assessments were thorough and contextually accurate.
Our analysis covered a broad range of topics, including structural and contextual factors such as land tenure structures and the economic conditions impacting the forestry sector. We also examined the status of any FLEGT (Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade) Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) negotiations, which are crucial for understanding the legal frameworks and commitments each country has made towards sustainable forestry practices.
The chapter on political economy dynamics delved into the regulatory environment and the gaps in implementation that often exist. We explored the forestry ‘culture’ and the significant role that informal norms and beliefs play in shaping practices within the sector. Additionally, we examined the roles of both formal and informal institutions and how they influence the forestry sector’s operations. The land economy within each country’s context was also analysed, providing insights into how land use and economic policies affect forestry practices.
A significant part of our assessment involved stakeholder analysis. We identified the main stakeholders in each country, highlighting specific dynamics around timber legality and sustainability. This analysis focused on identifying the winners and losers in the context of timber legality and sustainability, offering a nuanced understanding of the sector’s socio-economic impacts.
Lastly, we identified the challenges and opportunities present in the forestry sector, considering the socio-political and economic drivers of change. This comprehensive approach allowed us to provide detailed insights and recommendations for fostering sustainable and equitable forestry practices in Gabon and the Republic of Congo.
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