CLIMATE RESILIENCE THROUGH GRASSROOTS INNOVATION: EMPOWERING CONGOLESE COMMUNITIES TO ADAPT TO ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE

*Pitshou Moleka, PhD

ABSTRACT

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces compounding crises, as the country's protracted armed conflict converges with the escalating impacts of climate change. Vulnerable populations, particularly in rural and conflict-affected regions, are experiencing the devastating effects of droughts, floods, soil degradation, and resource scarcity. However, amidst these daunting challenges, a growing movement of Congolese innovators and community leaders are spearheading grassroots solutions to build climate resilience. This qualitative study explores the innovative approaches and leadership roles of local change-makers in the DRC who are developing community-driven adaptations to environmental threats. In-depth interviews were conducted with 22 social entrepreneurs, community organizers, and environmental activists across five provinces. Thematic analysis revealed themes related to indigenous knowledge integration, participatory action research, sustainable agriculture and land restoration, decentralized renewable energy, and inclusive disaster risk reduction. The findings highlight how Congolese communities are leveraging their own ingenuity, cultural assets, and collaborative spirit to devise locally-relevant strategies for adapting to climate change. This research offers critical insights to inform climate action policies and programs that empower grassroots innovation and community-led resilience in the DRC and similar fragile, conflict-affected contexts.

Keywords:

climate change adaptation, grassroots innovation, community resilience, Democratic Republic of Congo, environmental sustainability, empowerment, climate change, indigenous knowledge, action research, sustainable agriculture, land restoration, renewable

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