By: Haruna Kuyateh
4H Gambia, a local NGO is implementing EU Global Climate Change Alliance + Climate Resilient Coastal and Marine Zone Project for The Gambia.
The project dubbed as protects and enhance reforestation in Dobo Forest Park in Central Badibou. will hold inception training for members of Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Sub Committee of the Technical Advisory Committee to enhance Community Participation in the Management.
The inception training, held in Kerewan, North Bank Region, aimed to solicit support on the implementation of the project.
Alieu Ceesay National Director of 4H Gambia noted that the participation of key stakeholders on the implementation of Dobo Forest Park restoration practices, noting that the convergence provide opportunity to share best practices and work towards addressing deforestation and animals health.
He noted that the project embarked on series of consultation with beneficiary eight communities on utilisation of forest. Governor Lamin Saidykhan hailed the NGO for promoting partnership between 4H Gambia and Department of Forestry in working with forest management committee on the restoration of Dobo Forest Park.
He called on the communities and ANR sub-committee to support the execution of the project. Ousainou Cham Regional Principal Forestry Officer said the project will fence 500ha about 10 kilometres, drilling of borehole, with 4 water reservoirs and create green belt around.
He described the intervention of 4H Gambia and EU funded Global Climate Change Alliance GCAA + for complementing government efforts in the restoration of park to it glory days. He said protection and management of the forest call for concerted efforts and assured of forestry fullest support.
Momodou Jallow, Project Manager of GCCA + at 4H said the involvement and participation to the project calls for concerted efforts of all and sundry to strengthen capacity of communities. He disclosed that series of training will be provided communities in the management of forest, train 8 youths in nursery management, develop Community Resource Management Agreement
The focus on action afforestation that will ensure sustainable forest management practices and confronting the drivers of forest destruction in Dobo Forest Park as well address others key environmental challenge facing these communities.
Momodou Jallow of Kerr Ngarta chairman of Dobo Forest Park management Committee has described the intervention of 4H Gambia in restoration of Dobo Forest Park is unique, citing fencing, drilling of borehole and capacity development is crucial. He noted that forest restoration would create sanctuary for wildlife species.
The noted that the provide cattle tracks gates to allow cattle for grazing, water reservoirs point. He said the communities within the park will work with relevant authorities to protect and preserve.
Sarjo Camara Regional Livestock Director for NBR said project would help feed conservation techniques, green belt around the park ensure safety of animals. Whilst members of Livestock Owners Association NBR thanks the project for providing gates for cattle grazing and water facility