On August 5, 2025, the village of Lokolama was filled with color and laughter during a workshop unlike any other. Entitled “Our forests, our lives,” this creative space brought together 46 indigenous children around a mission: to draw their vision of the forest and its future.

Learning through play and creativity

Led by Greenpeace Africa volunteers, the workshop aimed to raise children’s awareness of the importance of the forest while allowing them to express themselves freely. Through the “learning by doing” method, the young people were able to strengthen their knowledge of biodiversity, peatlands, and the vital role of the Congo Basin’s forests.

Armed with pencils, paper, and colors, the children brought their dreams to life: huge trees, rivers teeming with fish, majestic animals, and families living in harmony with nature.

Simple but powerful messages

Behind each drawing, a clear message emerged: the forest is their home, their identity, and their future. These naive but profound graphic representations testify to the ecological awareness already present in the youngest children.

“We want to keep our forests to play, eat, and live with our families,” explained one girl, proudly showing her drawing filled with palm trees and butterflies.

Sowing seeds for the future

By valuing the children’s creativity, the workshop planted a precious seed: that of intergenerational responsibility. These young artists are called upon to become the guardians of tomorrow, bearers of a vision of sustainability and respect for nature.

A mirror for adults

The children’s drawings remind adults of a simple but essential truth: protecting the forest means protecting life. By listening to the voices of the youngest among us, Lokolama and beyond can build solutions rooted in hope and continuity.