As the world gathers in Yerevan, Armenia, for the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) from 19-30 October 2026, governments, conservation organisations, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and development partners will take stock of global progress in implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). COP17 marks the first global review of collective efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, making it a critical moment for translating commitments into measurable action.
For ARCOS Network (Albertine Rift Conservation Society), COP17 is more than a global policy event. It is an opportunity to demonstrate how local and regional conservation actions across the Albertine Rift are contributing to global biodiversity targets while strengthening climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and inclusive development.
Why COP17 Matters
Biodiversity underpins food security, water resources, climate resilience, and economic prosperity. Yet ecosystems worldwide continue to face growing pressures from habitat loss, climate change, unsustainable land use, and pollution. COP17 is expected to focus on biodiversity finance, ecosystem restoration, protected areas, monitoring progress toward global targets, and strengthening implementation mechanisms for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
As one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions, the Albertine Rift plays a vital role in conserving globally significant ecosystems and species. The region is home to exceptional levels of endemism, including great apes, mountain gorillas, endemic birds, freshwater systems, and rich forest landscapes that support millions of people.
ARCOS’ Vision for COP17
ARCOS believes that biodiversity conservation must go hand in hand with community empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, climate action, and regional cooperation. Through its work across the Albertine Rift and beyond, ARCOS is advancing practical solutions that contribute directly to the Global Biodiversity Framework, including:
- Restoration of degraded landscapes and ecosystems.
- Community-led conservation and natural resource management.
- Sustainable agriculture and nature-positive livelihoods.
- Youth engagement and environmental stewardship.
- Strengthening protected and conserved areas.
- Promotion of nature-based solutions for climate adaptation and resilience.
These actions demonstrate that biodiversity targets can only be achieved when local communities are empowered as custodians of nature and when conservation investments generate tangible benefits for people and ecosystems alike.
Amplifying African Voices
COP17 provides a strategic platform for African conservation organizations and local communities to share experiences, challenges, and innovations. ARCOS advocates for stronger recognition of Africa’s biodiversity wealth and the critical role of Indigenous Peoples, local communities, women, and youth in achieving global conservation goals.
The network also calls for increased and accessible biodiversity financing to support locally led initiatives that deliver measurable conservation outcomes while contributing to sustainable development.
From Commitments to Action
The coming years are decisive for the future of biodiversity. As the world assesses progress toward 2030 targets, ARCOS remains committed to transforming global commitments into action on the ground through partnerships, innovation, science, and community engagement.
COP17 is a moment to reaffirm that biodiversity conservation is not solely an environmental agenda. It is a pathway toward resilient communities, sustainable economies, and a thriving planet.
Together with partners, governments, and communities, ARCOS will continue working to ensure that nature and people prosper together across the Albertine Rift and beyond.
Nature. People. Prosperity. Through collective action, we can build a future where biodiversity is conserved, restored, and valued for generations to come.
