FRANCE 24 correspondent Thomas Nicolon documents Congo Basin in new book
Nicolon’s latest publication captures the ecosystem spanning six nations, reflecting on his transition from diplomatic reporting to documenting one of the planet’s most critical environmental regions.
Photographer and filmmaker Thomas Nicolon has published a new book titled "Kongo", which presents a visual record of the Congo Basin rainforest. The publication features imagery collected across the six countries that span the region, documenting the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest, which covers nearly 4 million square kilometres.
Nicolon, who previously served as a FRANCE 24 correspondent in Kinshasa, discussed his work and his connection to the rainforest in an interview with the network. The discussion took place as part of the "Perspective" segment on FRANCE 24, where he elaborated on the project that forms the core of his latest publication.
In the interview, Nicolon described his professional journey as an opportunity to build a career out of his childhood dreams. He expressed a profound personal connection to the environment he documents, stating, "Every time I'm in the forest, I'm like a little kid." This sentiment underscores his long-standing passion for the region, which has now been formalised in his photographic book.
The book "Kongo" serves as a comprehensive visual account of the ecosystem, highlighting the scale and significance of the rainforest. By utilising his background in photography and filmmaking, Nicolon provides a detailed look at the area, moving beyond his previous role as a correspondent to focus on the environmental and cultural landscape of the basin.
The release of the book coincides with a period of renewed interest in the Congo Basin, a region of critical global environmental importance. Nicolon’s work offers a documented perspective on the area, drawing on his extensive experience in the region, including his tenure in Kinshasa, to present a cohesive narrative of the rainforest.
The interview and the subsequent publication of "Kongo" highlight the intersection of journalism and environmental documentation. Nicolon’s transition from political correspondence to capturing the natural heritage of the Congo Basin reflects a broader engagement with the region’s defining features, offering readers a visual and narrative exploration of the rainforest.
The book launch marks a significant addition to the visual literature on the Congo Basin. Through his lens, Nicolon continues to explore the complexities of the region, combining his professional expertise with a personal reverence for the environment, as evidenced by his comments on the experience of being within the forest.
