2025 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The practice "Raising Awareness of Ecological Transition and Reforestation in Dougia" focused on engaging local communities, especially farmers and nomadic herders, in the sustainable management of natural resources to combat climate change. Since 2023, 12 people, including 6 NGO members and 6 farmers and herders, have been trained to plant trees and raise awareness among the local population about environmental issues. The project, carried out in a context marked by the depletion of local natural resources and lack of reforestation, resulted in tree planting and land restoration efforts. Around 30,000 people benefited from the awareness actions, strengthening their commitment to environmental protection. The project fostered better dialogue between farmers and herders and initiated discussions with local authorities on sustainable land management. However, the sustainability of the actions remains a challenge due to lack of funding. Nonetheless, this practice contributed to strengthening participatory democracy by involving communities in the management of their environment, ensuring a more sustainable future for the people of Dougia.

Farmers, nomadic herders, women, and youth were included because these groups play a central role in land and natural resource management in Dougia. Their inclusion was essential for ensuring the ownership and sustainability of the actions. Women, often involved in income-generating activities, were trained in tree planting and management techniques. Youth, as drivers of change, participated in awareness campaigns and reforestation sessions. Community leaders facilitated participatory meetings where the needs and priorities of different communities were discussed and integrated into planning. This participatory approach allowed for widespread mobilization and strengthened social cohesion around environmental goals.