In the framework of its activities to enhance capacities in its partner countries, the CEBioS program organized two training workshops about the ‘Measurement, Reporting and Verification’ (MRV) concept for biodiversity. This concept, developed by CEBioS, offers an approach to valorize scientific data and translate them into biodiversity indicators that can be communicated to decision-makers. Such indicators help measure the impact of policies and projects, support decision making, and monitor on the implementation of biodiversity strategies.

During the first workshop, held 26-28 February 2020 in Entebbe (Uganda), scientists and decision-makers from Uganda, Tanzania and Palestine gathered to share their experience and knowledge, and to further refine their MRV projects proposals. The workshop addressed subjects that are relevant for the adequate formulation of MRV projects. The MRV concept was explained, as well as the basic principles of the Theory of Change and Project Cycle management. Topics as ‘Biodiversity governance’ and ‘Mainstreaming of biodiversity monitoring in policy sectors and development plans’ were treated and illustrated with case studies by the Ugandan National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).  A comparison of online biodiversity data portals and training about data quality related to biodiversity indicators was also part of the program. The participants had the opportunity to present their project proposals and improve them following discussions with resource persons from different fields.

The second workshop was held 5-7 March 2020 in Bukavu (DR Congo), with an audience mainly consisting of biology professors and researchers from the provinces of North and South Kivu, and from Tanganyika and Burundi. The focus was put on the introduction to the MRV concept in the region. CEBioS, Beninese experts and representatives of the national and provincial ministries of environment talked about the development of biodiversity indicators, the science-policy interface, data quality and database management, and the impeding factors with regards to the flow of policy-relevant information from scientists to decision makers.  The presentation of ongoing Congolese, Beninese and Burundese MRV projects contributed to a better understanding of the concept. Group discussions in a ‘World Café’ format led to a host of recommendations to mitigate the numerous impediments of biodiversity monitoring and research in the region. They will be made public soon in a joint document.
More information:
•    CEBioS
•    the MRV concept
•    MRV calls launched by CEBioS