CFC partners with CAFI to shape Deforestation-Free Value Chains in the Congo Basin
The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) is pleased to announce that the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI) has selected CFC as an implementing organization for a groundbreaking project aimed at shaping deforestation-free value chains in the Congo Basin. This initiative underscores CFC’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic development while ensuring the protection of one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.
Launched during the 2015 United Nations General Assembly, CAFI is a collaborative partnership dedicated to safeguarding the Congo Basin—the world’s second-largest rainforest—which plays a crucial role in global climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and the livelihoods of millions. CAFI works with partner countries to reduce deforestation and forest degradation while promoting sustainable economic growth and improved land use planning.
As part of this partnership, CAFI has approved an initial preparatory grant to CFC to develop a regional project that establishes deforestation-free value chains through dedicated financing mechanisms. The initiative will focus on reducing the environmental impact of agricultural expansion, promoting sustainable forest industries, and supporting sustainable value chains. Additionally, it will emphasize sustainable forest management to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.
To achieve these objectives, CFC will collaborate with the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) as an implementing partner, leveraging its expertise in sustainable forestry and value chain development. The preparatory grant will support the development of a comprehensive project proposal with the potential to secure up to USD 60 million in grant funding, to be deployed over a five-year period.
“The Congo Basin is more than just a regional resource—it is a cornerstone of the planet’s ecological balance. We are thrilled to take part in this critical initiative alongside CAFI, as we work toward fostering economic growth while safeguarding one of the planet’s most vital ecosystems,” said Amb. Sheikh Belal, Managing Director of CFC.
Underscoring the importance of this partnership, he added, “Together with CAFI, we are committed to driving positive change. This represents a significant step forward in aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship. Through innovation and collaboration, we are determined to reduce pressures on the Congo Basin and ensure its benefits for generations to come.”
The Congo Basin rainforest absorbs nearly 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 annually, accounting for approximately 4% of global emissions. CAFI mobilizes funds and implements strategies to address the root causes of deforestation, such as unsustainable agricultural practices, land use pressures, and economic instability. By developing deforestation-free value chains, this project will contribute to preserving the Congo Basin while enabling economic resilience in the region.
CFC is actively intensifying its engagement with agricultural and forestry sector actors across the Congo Basin, which includes Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Central African Republic. The organization remains committed to ensuring that commodity value chains align with climate priorities, enhance resilience, and promote biodiversity.
Together, CAFI and CFC are dedicated to driving transformative change that balances economic growth with environmental protection. Through this initiative, they will work to ensure that the Congo Basin continues to serve as a vital ecological and economic resource for generations to come.
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[CFC Media Relations Team]
[Email: managing.director@common-fund.org]
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