Feasibility Study of the SAWA KIVU Project: Sustainable Energy, Sustainable Livelihoods and Resilient Ecosystems for a Greener Future in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

This study was carried out in the territories of Idjwi and Masisi to analyze the situation of households in terms of food security, livelihoods and waste management, as well as to assess the acceptability of waste recovery technologies in the targeted communities. The main objective was to provide evidence to guide the design and implementation of a project aimed at improving livelihoods while promoting sustainable environmental solutions.

Data collection took place between February 23 and March 4, 2026 in the two targeted territories. The study adopted a mixed approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative component was based on a household survey, carried out among a sample of 392 households distributed between the zones of Idjwi and Masisi. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered by trained interviewers. In addition, 4 FG were organized with different categories of participants (men, women and young people) and 22 interviews with key informants were carried out.

The results show that food security remains a significant challenge for some households in both areas, with a significant proportion of households facing difficulties in regularly accessing sufficient and diversified food. Agriculture remains the main source of livelihood, but it is often limited by the lack of agricultural inputs, constraints on access to land and the low productivity of agricultural systems.

Concerning waste transformation technologies, the study reveals that composting is the most familiar technology for communities, with around 63% of respondents declaring they are aware of it, although its practice still remains limited or poorly mastered. Furthermore, almost a quarter of respondents indicate that they have no idea about waste recovery technologies, which highlights a significant need for awareness and capacity building in this area.

Despite this relatively limited level of knowledge, the results show a strong interest among communities in products resulting from waste recovery after a brief explanation by the investigators. Participants particularly expressed an interest in compost, fuel briquettes, biogas and myciculture, because of the income opportunities they can generate, their environmental benefits and their potential to reduce energy costs.

The study also reveals a strong willingness of households to adopt more sustainable energy alternatives: around 91% of households say they are ready to switch from wood or coal to gas, while 87% say they are willing to buy products from waste processing, with some also expressing an interest in their production and marketing.

The qualitative discussions also made it possible to identify several priorities for the communities, including the development of income-generating activities, the strengthening of technical and entrepreneurial capacities, support for sustainable agriculture and the promotion of local solutions for waste management and alternative energy production.

Overall, the results of the study highlight strong potential for the implementation of a project integrating waste recovery, strengthening livelihoods and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, provided these initiatives are accompanied by awareness-raising, training and technical support actions adapted to the local context and the purchasing power of households.