OECM side-event at the SADC 25th Anniversary Conference and Summit

Improving the understanding of ‘other effective area-based conservation areas’ (OECMs) by providing a technical overview, supported by African case studies, and applying these to TFCAs by interrogating national and TFCA specific needs, barriers, and opportunities to promote the recognition and strengthening of OECMs.

The OECM event at this week's SADC TFCA Summit was a notable success. The session aimed to deepen understanding of other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) by providing a technical overview of the CBD definition and global guidance on OECMs, followed by presentations of compelling African case studies from South Africa, Namibia, Angola, and Tanzania. Additionally, two key enablers were explored to firstly ensure the equitable recognition and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IP&LCs) when assessing their territories as OECMs, and secondly to highlight opportunities to unlock sustainable finance solutions for OECMs. Panellists and the audience examined how OECMs can contribute to achieving the biodiversity and connectivity goals of Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs), while addressing specific needs, barriers, and opportunities. A critical takeaway was the significance of recognizing and supporting community-led conservation and traditional governance within these dynamic landscapes.

Downloads

• OECM report of workshop
• OECM Slide deck