The Upper Guinea Forest in Sierra Leone and Liberia is severely affected by agricultural expansion, illegal logging, mining and fuelwood collection, depleting biodiversity and threatening the livelihoods of rural communities that rely on forest resources. This programme combines research and community action to promote sustainable land use and forest conservation. Co-developing restoration strategies with local communities, it blends traditional knowledge and science to identify deforestation drivers and inform decisions.
Communities will lead reforestation and resource management efforts, with a focus on women and young people. By supporting ecosystem-based businesses and equitable access to resources, the programme enhances biodiversity, carbon storage and resilience to climate change.