Activists in Kinshasa rally to save century-old Baobab tree

Environmental activists in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are campaigning to protect one of the last remaining Baobab trees in the city center.

The tree, located in Kinshasa's Gombe suburb, was reportedly at risk of being cut down to make way for a new building until activists petitioned the government for intervent

Jean Mangalibi, a nature enthusiast and gardener, mobilized fellow activists to defend the tree. "We have created a platform called 'About the Baobab' to share ideas with politicians on how we can make Congo better. Our country used to be Africa's green economy. The best place to discuss these ideas is under the Baobab. So, we have filed a petition regarding that Baobab tree, and we will do everything to save it," Mangalibi said.

Activists allege that officials from the DRC's state-owned transport company illegally sold the land to a private developer. While the government has not publicly responded to the accusations, the construction project has been put on hold, offering some relief to local workers.

Kinshasa still has Baobab trees on its outskirts, but this one is the only remaining Baobab in the historic city center. Locals say past leaders once used it as a meeting place, further highlighting its historical significance.