Kinshasa, June 17th, 2025 (CPA).– The investment in the wood energy sector to contribute to the reduction of unemployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been recommended on Tuesday to students at the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN) during a conference organised by the students coordination on the theme: ‘World Day to Combat the Desertification and the Drought’. ‘I urge you to invest in the wood energy sector, because it is crucial. Many people do not pay attention to this area, but this investment will not only generate income, but also help combat unemployment,’ has declared Ms Mbuyi Bilonda Brigitte, head of services at the Ministry in charge of the Environment and national coordinator.
According to Ms Mbuyi, it is important to encourage young people to look beyond the immediate challenges and consider the opportunities offered by a rapidly expanding market. Brigitte Mbuyi Bilonda has invited participants to consider wood energy not only as an economic resource, but also as a product that can contribute to the fight against deforestation when managed responsibly.
She has highlighted the major challenges facing the wood energy sector, such as the need to adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly practices while meeting growing demand. ‘We must understand that this is an investment, it’s a business plan,’ she has added, emphasising the importance of a strategic and thoughtful approach in this area. In addition, Ms Bilonda has also mentioned the importance of raising consumer awareness of the benefits of sustainable sourcing. ‘Stay independent and let your creative spirit flourish,’ she has advised.
‘A better consumer education can stimulate demand for products from responsible sources and encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices. The success of the sector will depend not only on individual initiatives but also on public policies that promote an environment conducive to sustainable entrepreneurship, » has concluded Brigitte Bilonda.
The conference, organised by the student coordination committee of the University of Kinshasa, has highlighted the importance of the wood energy sector in combating unemployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo.