Overview
Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities across Southern Africa often face barriers to having their voices heard in decisions about natural resources that directly impact their lives. The Community Leaders Network (CLN) plays an essential role in advocating for these communities on issues like natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism. This project focuses on strengthening CLN’s Secretariat and organisational capacity, enabling it to operate independently and represent the interests of millions of rural Africans in national, regional, and international forums.
Partners
Ecosystems
Croplands
Deserts
Savannah, Shrublands and Grasslands
Status
Ongoing (2023 – 2024)Thematic Area
Capacity Building
Data collection / monitoring
Governance
Supporting a CBNRM conservation area
Supporting Human Centered Conservation
Key Biodiversity Areas
Overview
Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities across Southern Africa often face barriers to having their voices heard in decisions about natural resources that directly impact their lives. The Community Leaders Network (CLN) plays an essential role in advocating for these communities on issues like natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism. This project focuses on strengthening CLN’s Secretariat and organisational capacity, enabling it to operate independently and represent the interests of millions of rural Africans in national, regional, and international forums.
Partners
Ecosystems
Croplands
Deserts
Savannah, Shrublands and Grasslands
Status
Ongoing (2023 – 2024)Thematic Area
Capacity Building
Data collection / monitoring
Governance
Supporting a CBNRM conservation area
Supporting Human Centered Conservation
Key Biodiversity Areas
Objectives
- Enable Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities to actively participate in decision-making processes related to natural resource management.
- Build the capacity of communities in sustainable natural resource management, including biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism.
- Develop sustainable income-generating activities linked to natural resource management, thereby improving community livelihoods.
- Strengthen governance structures by reinforcing local institutions and frameworks to support effective Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) and ensure long-term sustainability.
10 - Reduced Inequalities
11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities
13 - Climate Action
14 - Life Below water
15 - Life on Land
16 - Peace Justice and Strong Institions
17 - Partnerships for the Goals
5 - Gender Equality
6 - Clean Water and Sanitation
SDGs
CBD Targets
”This project isn’t just about strengthening an organisation—it’s about empowering communities to secure their future. By standing together and amplifying their voices, we can help rural communities in Southern Africa take control of their resources, their livelihoods, and their future.
Dr Rodgers Lubilo
Chairman of Community Leaders Network
Results/Impact
- A stronger CLN: A well-resourced, inclusive, and transparent CLN that can independently lead advocacy for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities across Southern Africa.
- National Networks Empowered: National CBNRM associations equipped with the tools, training, and resources to better serve their communities.
- Voices Amplified: Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities stories, challenges, and successes are shared on regional and global stages, influencing policies that affect their futures.
- Sustainable Funding: Innovative funding models ensuring CBNRM projects thrive, providing Local Communities with secure livelihoods while protecting their natural resources.
13
countries in the Network
6
new National Networks/Forums/Focal points
