By: Haruna Kuyateh
The Wetland International – Dakar Office earlier this week visited the Agency for the Development of Women and Children (ADWAC) during its implementation of a two-day project dubbed Integrated Sustainable Mangrove eco-system Restoration and Management in Nuimi and Jokadu National Parks in North Bank Region.
The project supported by Wetland International is part of an effort to the restoration of 50ha depleted land with mangrove propagules, so far, the agency planted over 100,000 mangroves along the wetland.
However, the officials of Wetland International Dakar Office are on a four-day field visit to project sites in the North Bank Region.
Mamsamba Joof, Executive Director of ADWAC described the restoration exercise as crucial in promoting sustainable livelihood development and mitigating the effect of climate change. He proclaimed that over 100,000 mangrove propagules were planted on 43ha of land, noting that the project will meet its target of 50ha in the coming weeks as agreed by Wetland International.
Director Joof reiterated that the partnership between the two institutions contributed immensely to strengthening the capacity of oyster collectors, fishermen, and fish processors in support of the project. He emphasized the need for ensuring sustainability which made it crucial for higher community participation. Although the mangrove ecosystem is crucial for our domestic needs but equally important for our biodiversity.
Wally Saine, Head of Delegation of Wetland International Dakar Office expressed satisfaction with the high rate of project implementation by ADWAC and the community participation in the restoration of mangrove propagles along Nuimi and JokaduNational Parks.
He said the visit provided them the opportunity to join the Director of ADWAC and staff on the planting of mangroves at Jokadou Dasilami, saying the turnout of women and youths has demonstrated a strong commitment to the restoration of depleted mangroves.
The project aimed at establishing community woodlots to ease fuelwood collection and reduce pressure. ADWAC boss thanked the Department of Parks and Wildlife and Regional Forestry Offices for the level of collaboration in enhancing resilient building on environmental protection and regeneration.
Commenting on intervention in schools, Mr. Saine noted that it is crucial to target schools in promoting sustainable integrated environmental protection and preservation of natural resources.
The head of the Wetland International delegation disclosed their office will continue working with the ADWAC office for implementation and scaling up school environmental activities to bring positive changes through education, mangroves, and tree planting.
