The Gambia is taking significant steps to strengthen its forest management through the REDD+ framework. This initiative is part of a wider effort involving several West African nations, including Sierra Leone, Benin, Guinea-Bissau, and Guinea.
Alieu Barry, Head of the Participatory Forest Management Unit, highlighted how The Gambia’s forests have faced serious degradation. Factors like agricultural expansion and population growth have increased the demand for land, pressing the government to take action. The country is committed to combating climate change and is embracing the REDD+ mechanism to reduce emissions from deforestation.
REDD+ presents a unique chance for developing countries to secure climate finance while fostering sustainable practices. Barry emphasized the need for a well-planned National REDD+ Roadmap to align local initiatives with international standards. This roadmap aims to ensure that the country benefits maximally from forest conservation.
Bubu Pateh Jallow, a Climate Finance Adviser, underscored the crucial role of forests in absorbing carbon dioxide. In the past, The Gambia’s forests were significant carbon sinks; however, due to massive deforestation, they have turned into sources of emissions. Jallow pointed out that addressing this issue is vital for both environmental and economic recovery, particularly as agriculture has recently become the leading cause of emissions in the country.
Ibrahim Colley, a Principal Planner at the Ministry of Environment, noted alarming forest loss statistics. In the 1980s, forests covered about 40% of The Gambia, but from 1997 to 2010, nearly 100,000 hectares disappeared, largely due to illegal logging and land disputes. He reminded us that safeguarding forests is an investment in the country’s future, not a burden on development.
Dr. Mustapha Ceesay from the FAO praised the government’s leadership in advancing the REDD+ agenda. He highlighted that the REDD+ Roadmap is crucial for mitigating climate change while also boosting biodiversity and local livelihoods. This roadmap was developed through a thorough consultation process, gathering insights from various stakeholders across all regions of The Gambia.
This validation process is more than just a milestone; it’s a call to action. The country needs effective partnerships and resource mobilization to address the growing challenges of climate change. Engaging local communities will be essential in building a sustainable future.
According to recent statistics, global deforestation contributes significantly to carbon emissions. The FAO reported that up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from deforestation. This highlights the urgency of initiatives like REDD+ in curbing environmental damage.
The path ahead for The Gambia involves not only restoring its forests but also shifting towards a sustainable economy. With the right efforts, it can become a model for other nations facing similar struggles.
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