Unfortunately, the RegenerateDRC project has not received any previous funding from Gitcoin Grant rounds. This is the first time the project is applying for funding through the Gitcoin platform.

However, the project has been actively working on its initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo over the past year, and has achieved several important milestones and faced some key challenges, which I can summarize:

Milestones and Updates:

Community Engagement:

- The local NGO DEC has conducted over 10 environmental conferences and workshops with Congolese youth since 2019, focusing on raising awareness about environmental rights and advocacy.
- DEC has successfully organized "city without plastics" campaigns in collaboration with the University of Goma, engaging the community in plastic waste reduction efforts.

Reforestation Efforts:

- In 2020 and now in 2024, DEC facilitated the planting of 10,000 tree seedlings as part of their community-led reforestation initiative in the Kivu region.
- The project has identified priority reforestation sites in Idjwi and Goma and is preparing to scale up these efforts with additional seedlings.

Research and Partnerships:

- The project has established a partnership with the Yale School of the Environment, which has provided valuable research support and advisory guidance.
- This collaboration culminated in the "Clean Lake Kivu Conference" held in 2024, where climate advocates and academics exchanged insights on strategies for climate leadership in the global south.

Challenges Faced:

Funding and Resource Constraints:

- The project has faced limited funding and resources to fully implement its comprehensive program of reforestation, water initiatives, and environmental education.
- Lack of essential equipment like laptops, phones, and monitoring devices has hindered the project's operational capabilities and data collection efforts.

Logistical Difficulties:

- Organizing and executing community events and reforestation activities in remote areas of the DRC has been logistically challenging, requiring significant coordination and on-the-ground presence.
- Ensuring reliable transportation and communication channels has been an ongoing concern.

Community Engagement Challenges:

- While the project has had success in engaging local communities, sustaining long-term participation and fostering a sense of ecological citizenship remains an ongoing effort.
- Overcoming cultural and educational barriers to environmental stewardship requires a patient, iterative approach.

Despite these challenges, the RegenerateDRC project remains committed to its mission and is eager to leverage the support and resources of the Gitcoin community to accelerate its impact in the Congo Basin. The milestones achieved thus far demonstrate the project's potential, and with the necessary funding and assistance, the team is confident in their ability to scale their efforts and create tangible, lasting change.