In a remarkable effort to promote sustainable forest management and empower local communities, the LEH GO GREEN UNDP funded project is making significant strides in Grand Cape Mount, Gbarpolu, Lofa, Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties Liberia. The project aims to implement the Community Conservation Agreement (CCA), and establish 500,000 agro forestry native trees and environmentally sustainable cocoa production for small-scales farmers in the above mentioned communities. This emphasizes the importance of local stewardship over forest resources. This initiative is rooted in the belief that sustainable practices can not only protect the environment but also provide economic opportunities for community members.
From September 24 to 29, 2024, a dedicated delegation from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Society for the Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL) engaged with residents and beneficiaries in four towns namely: Fornor Town, Jebbeh-Fornor Town, Kawelahun Town, and Gbanjue Town in Porkpa District to discuss Community Conservation Agreement (CCA) engagement under the project. Over the course of five days, nearly 300 participants—predominantly women—came together to discuss the CCA and its implications for their lives and livelihoods. The engagement also attracted the presence of the President of Community Forest in Liberia, Mr. Saye Thompson.
During these discussions, community members expressed both enthusiasm and concern. The conversations highlighted the ecological significance of the Lower Sokpo Community Forest, as well as its potential to enhance the economic resilience of residents. A key outcome of the engagement was the commitment to form CCA committees in each town, ensuring that everyone has a voice in the decision-making process. Participants collectively pledged to conserve the Lower Sokpo Community Forest, recognizing it as a crucial asset for future generations.
While in Jebbeh-Fornor and Fornor Towns, partners and donors had the opportunity to witness firsthand the progress made by SCNL in establishing a nursery of about 27,000 native trees. Among the native trees on the nursery were, Xylopia Aethiopica (Guinea Pepper), Lophira Alata (Ekkii), Garcinia Kola (Bitter kola), Parinari Excelsa (Guinea Plum), Beischmiedia Mannii (Wolo), and Heritiara utilis (wishmore). Under the LEH GO GREEN project, SCNL is to establish 1,000 tree farm for each household. The farms will comprise of a mixture of cocoa and native trees, with 80% being cocoa while the remaining 20% will be native trees.
As the LEH GO GREEN project progresses, it stands as a beacon of hope for the future of Grand Cape Mount County. By intertwining conservation efforts with economic development, the initiative aims to create a sustainable model that not only protects the environment but also uplifts local communities and governance. The dedication displayed by both community members and the project team signals a promising path forward, highlighting the power of partnership in achieving shared goals.
Stay tuned for more updates on the LEH GO GREEN project and its impact on the vibrant communities of Liberia!