Main results of the training of SME actors of the forestry-wood sector in Congo

*Photo of the SME-VSE training in Congo*

The training mission for SME-VSE actors that took place in Brazzaville from February 21 to March 11, 2002 was the last in a series of four missions (the other three took place in the DRC, Cameroon and Gabon).

SMEs and VSEs in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire benefited from capacity building in the integration of the training function in their management approaches.

The SWOT analysis of the artisanal wood processing sector in Congo reveals:

An excellent and abundant forest resource,
A raw material wood easily available and of good quality,
A network of artisanal enterprises with a fairly good technical level,
A real dynamic of young entrepreneurs,
Three clusters of wood enterprises supported by a EU project,
The FONEA positioned as a project manager for qualification training,
The CCIAM* and the CEFA** wish to position themselves in the continuous training sector,
A local market limited in volume,
The origin of the wood is unknown with recurrent difficulties for dry wood,
A recurrent problem of repair and sharpening,
Associations lack legal and technical support,

Photo of the SME-VSE training in Congo

Some strategic orientations suggested by the consultants:

Strengthen the offer of continuous training via training organizations, structure and organize a continuous training service in each CEFA and train trainers in pairs (professionals/teachers),
Train professionals and teachers in the pedagogy (andragogy) of continuing education,
Include the CCIAMs, federations and associations in the diagnosis of needs (prescription) and the evaluation of skills,
Coach and accompany clusters to secure the implementation of shared equipment.

CCIAM* = Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Agriculture and Crafts

CEFA** = Work-linked education and training centre