Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-21 09:28:16
International Day of Forests 2024, celebrated on 21 March, will have the global theme of ‘Forests and Innovation.’ The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), known for its efforts in restoring vital forest ecosystems, is calling on the people of The Gambia to come together to safeguard their precious vegetation.
In The Gambia, forests and woodlands cover approximately 46.0% of the land, with only 0.2% designated as primary forest—a crucial biodiversity hotspot. Despite having 1,000 hectares of planted forests, the country is facing challenges such as losing hectares of tree cover, leading to kilotonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
With deforestation rates on the rise and climate change presenting imminent threats, FAO Gambia has taken proactive measures to address this pressing challenge. One of the innovative projects they have introduced is the Forest Farm Facility, which focuses on restoring depleted forest cover and promoting resilient landscapes in strategic locations.
By collaborating with partners like UNIDO, FAO is implementing eco-friendly cooking technologies in key areas. Initiatives such as the Global Environmental Facility-funded Community-Based Sustainable Dry Land Forest Management Project have distributed 4,000 improved cooking stoves to 2,000 households, aiming to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal production and mitigate forest degradation.
Shibu Rampedi, emphasizing FAO’s commitment to innovative solutions, highlights the importance of investing in eco-friendly alternatives like the FAO Thiaroye Processing Technique ovens to minimize environmental impact and ensure a healthier, sustainable future for local communities.
Through partnerships with organizations like the United Nations-sponsored Peace Building Fund and the Global Environmental Facility, FAO is raising awareness about the detrimental effects of charcoal production and providing alternative income opportunities such as horticulture and beekeeping. By empowering communities through initiatives like beekeeping, FAO not only strengthens livelihoods but also contributes to preserving Gambia’s precious vegetation and generating income.
Mangrove forest conservation will receive a boost from national authorities and support from the Green Climate Fund. With collective efforts and a focus on practical solutions, positive change towards a greener, more sustainable future is within reach. By advocating for environmental stewardship and nurturing a culture of conservation, it is possible to halt deforestation. The call to action is to stand together to protect forests, restore ecosystems, and safeguard the rich biodiversity they sustain.
On this International Day of Forests, let us all pledge to work towards a better future for our forests and the planet as a whole. It is through unity and collaboration that we can ensure the preservation of these vital ecosystems for generations to come.
Read the original article on The Standard
