Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdul Rashid Thomas
Published on 2024-03-22 10:03:02
Mohamed Ismail Kamara: Sierra Leone Telegraph: 22 March 2024
The city of Freetown is facing a looming catastrophe as deforestation rates continue to rise. Once covered in lush forests that provided ecological and economic benefits, the growth of the city and demand for resources have led to the rapid decline of these vital ecosystems. The consequences of this deforestation are far-reaching and must be addressed urgently to protect the city and its citizens.
The Western Area Peninsula Forest Reserve, spanning over 130,000 hectares, has long been a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. However, increased deforestation from logging and urbanization is putting this delicate environment at risk. Species are going extinct, and the destruction of these forests is relentless. A recent United Nations report highlighted the apocalyptic devastation looming over the city due to the deforestation crisis.
Signs of an imminent disaster are already visible, with increased floods, landslides, storms, and extreme heat impacting millions of residents in Freetown. The erosion of topsoil from the hills and the absence of trees that once held it together are exacerbating the situation. Trees play a crucial role in preventing landslides by anchoring soil layers and regulating water cycles. The degradation of trees is increasing the city’s vulnerability to natural disasters and water shortages.
The UN study reported a significant reduction in forest cover in Freetown’s main water source, the national park, due to activities such as land grabbing, charcoal burning, and quarrying. Deforestation is endangering the capital and highlighting the urgent need for sustainability measures.
The consequences of deforestation go beyond biodiversity loss and climate change. The lack of trees impacts Freetown’s resilience against diseases, environmental health, and water scarcity. Urgent action is needed to mitigate these effects and protect the city’s future.
Measures such as reforestation, rehabilitation of forest reserves, and policy reforms are crucial in addressing the deforestation crisis. Strict enforcement of laws, a ban on timber exports, and community engagement in sustainable forest management practices are essential steps towards protecting Freetown’s environment.
The author emphasizes the urgent need for action to prevent a catastrophic event in Freetown. Reforestation initiatives must be prioritized, and the government should take the UN report seriously. With past disasters serving as warnings, it is crucial to act now to stop deforestation, reforest, and save Freetown from impending environmental devastation.
About the author
Mohamed Ismail Kamara is the Executive Director of Stichting EcoProbe Africa in the Netherlands.
Read the original article on Sierra Leone Telegraph
