Reforestation of the Abutia Plains by indigenous communities in the Volta Basin (Ghana) ex post evaluation

Background

Deforestation an degradation in Ghana has been an on-going issue, with one-third of the country's forested area reporting lossed between 1955 to 1972. This has been due to increased human acitivities and the effects have been further aggravated by socio-economic issues. In 1994, the government of Ghana adapted a Forest & Wildlife Policy and established a program for reforestation that involved a variety of stakeholders.

Goals & Approach

The project is intended to support community-based reforestation activities in order to halt and reverse the deterioration of tropical forests belonging to indigenous communities in the Abutia Plains of Ghana. Teak plantations were chosen for reforestation due to their viability in the region and its economic benefits. Fruit trees and other native species have also been planted and indigenous communities have been trained in agroforestry.

Reported Takeaways

Overall some lessons learned were that project managers should prepare for unfavorable weather conditions/ long periods of drought that could potentially delay the project start off. It is important for project managers to have training in conflict resolution to ensure the smooth running of projects. Also to ensure early participatory meetings with local communities before the start of a reforestation project involving local community groups. They recommend that land tenure rights should be investigated before the start of reforestation projects. Also, the design of any community reforestation project should be participatory with wide consultations and communications with local groups.