KABAMBARE: Participatory Mapping and Boundary Conflict Resolution in Three Villages of the BB Wamaza

KABAMBARE: Participatory Mapping and Boundary Conflict Resolution in Three Villages of the BB Wamaza Sector

As part of promoting community forestry and the sustainable management of natural resources, the CBCS-Network team conducted a field mission in three villages of the BB Wamaza Sector, Kabambare Territory (Kangwangwa, Lupanga, and Mayembe). The objective of this mission was to carry out participatory mapping activities and facilitate reconciliation among these communities, which had previously been affected by boundary disputes related to land and natural resource management.

This initiative brought together various stakeholders during a community assembly around a common goal: identifying, delineating, and documenting areas of collective interest, resource-use zones, and customary boundaries. Participatory mapping serves as a powerful tool for dialogue and conflict resolution, as it promotes the integration of local knowledge and encourages the development of consensus-based solutions.

Through three days of intensive community discussions, data collection sessions, and field validation of information, participants demonstrated their commitment to peaceful coexistence. This process resulted in the preparation of two applications for Local Community Forest Concessions (CFCLs) for the villages of Kangwangwa and Mayembe. These applications have now been officially submitted to the BB Wamaza Sector Office.

This collaborative approach will contribute to improved local planning, the prevention of future conflicts, and the recognition of customary rights and traditional knowledge held by the concerned communities.

We warmly commend the community leaders, youth, women, and all stakeholders who actively participated in this initiative, which symbolizes a future built on dialogue, cooperation, and lasting peace around our forests and village resources.

#CBCS