In early 2018, the non-profit organisation Friends of Mbala-Mbala was founded to give more visibility and continuity to Mbala-Mbala’s projects in Kinshasa. Since 2025, we’ve been continuing this commitment under a new name: Irrawaddy Earth vzw. This name change marks a broadening of our field of action and a sharpening of our objective. Whereas the initial focus was on supporting the community in Bumba, Irrawaddy Earth now focuses more broadly on promoting a thriving and resilient Earth through regenerative socio-ecological systems, rooted in ethical stewardship.
Registration number: 0694.988.073
Objectives
The association aims to promote a thriving and resilient Earth through regenerative socio-ecological systems rooted in ethical stewardship.
The association strives to strengthen ecosystems and communities in a way that respects the carrying capacity of the planet.
It wishes to achieve this goal through study and research assignments, capacity building, the development of cultural, educational, artistic and ecological projects, the facilitation of partnerships and the mobilisation of funding at local and international level.
Expertise
Our work is based on years of experience in:
- Integrated water management and river basin planning, including wetland restoration and ecosystem services;
- Climate adaptation and resilience, such as climate risk analyses, nature-based solutions and national adaptation plans;
- Disaster risk management, including early warning systems and climate hazard models;
- Sustainable development and capacity building, including regenerative economic models, community initiatives and international cooperation.
How we work and who we are
Irrawaddy Earth builds bridges between local communities, international partners and supporters. Based on our experience in Mbala-Mbala, solidarity with vulnerable communities remains an important driving force, but we now place this in a broader context of global water and climate challenges. Fundraising, knowledge sharing and partnerships are crucial tools in this regard.
Participate
We believe in the power of a network of committed people and organisations who put their hearts and expertise into working for people and nature. Discover on this site how you can contribute and help build a future in which ecosystems and communities flourish together.