Project goal

This project’s goal is to assist local communities in protecting and exploiting their biodiversity-rich sacred or community forests, which harbor threatened plants and animals.

 Expected results

1. Official protection of forests in three communities through Government decree.
2. Enhance eco-tourism in the communities, focusing on threatened plants, birds, and mammals like the red-bellied monkey, sitatunga swamp antelope, dwarf crocodile, and manatee.
3. Involvement of local communities in the sustainable management of renewable forest resources, particularly non-timber forest products.
4. Strengthen self-help initiatives for rural development in the communities.
5. Improve integration and exchange of knowledge and practices between the three communities.
6. Strengthen local authorities, including traditional Vodun practices, for the protection of sacred forests and wildlife.
7. Increase community participation in forest conservation and management activities.