WeForest Project
Title
Senegal
Empowering women in mangrove restoration
Project Summary
This project joined forces with local women’s associations, many of whom had prior experience in reforestation activities on a smaller scale, to plant and restore the local mangrove forest. These women depend on the mangroves for their livelihoods. Mangrove seeds were planted and women were educated and trained in sustainable exploitation of forest resources to ensure the conservation of this important habitat and help women improve their lifestyles. The mangrove forests provide women with the raw materials they need to make economically valuable handicrafts. Once engaged in the project, women trained others within their communities.
Region
Siné-Saloum Delta
Project Status
Closed
Project Goals
Restore mangrove forest
Promote biodiversity
Promote economic and liveilhood development
Why is intervention needed?
Mangrove forests are being destroyed at an alarming rate worldwide, largely a result of human activity. West Africa is no exception. Human exploitation, infrastructure and upland clearance have brought about a decline in mangrove forest cover of 24% in the last 30 years alone. The Siné-Saloum Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to globally important mangrove forests. This estuarine wetland is a significant breeding ground for numerous migratory birds. It is also valuable to local communities, who depend on the mangrove forest for a great deal. Providing fresh water, protection from soil erosion and habitat for valuable fish species, this mangrove forest is important for people and nature.
