A Landscape Management Model for Conserving Biodiversity in the Comoros Islands

Background

The Comoros Islands have experienced one of the worst rates of deforestation in the world, which has threatened the livelihoods of both communities and the existence of critical flora and fauna. This is particularly common on Anjuan Island due to the regions the high population density. This GEF-Satoyama Project seeks to address these trends. 

research goals & Methods

The goal of the 2 year project was to design and implement a community-led model for landscape management. This model would strive to address three main barriers to ocio-ecological production landscapes (SEPLS), including lack of recognition of SEPLS values, loss of traditional knowledge, and weak governance. Activities primarily attempted to integrate forest protection and agriculture in agroforestry. 

conclusions & takeaways

By 2018, the project had provided training for farmers in agricultural production chains, had four conservation agreement with various land holders, and had replaced trees in a water catchment area while also tranining farmers how to start and manage nurseries for further reforestation. The project does recognize that their lack of women involvement should be addressed in the future.