By: Aminata Sesay
In a significant step toward tackling climate change and promoting food sovereignty, ten schools across northern Sierra Leone have become key players in a new Green Initiative launched by ActionAid Sierra Leone in partnership with the Women’s Forum for Human Rights and Democracy (WOFHRAD-SL).
Officially launched in Makumpbana, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to build climate resilience in schools and surrounding communities while boosting local economies through sustainable agriculture.
According to Fatmata Jalloh, Regional Manager of ActionAid North, the program aligns with the organization’s national strategy, particularly its third priority area: climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
“This is more than just tree planting. It’s about changing mindsets and empowering communities with the knowledge and tools they need to protect their environment and livelihoods,” Jalloh said. “We’re focusing on disaster-prone areas where deforestation has left communities especially vulnerable. Our message is simple: if you cut one tree, you must plant five.”
Fully funded by ActionAid’s sponsorship program, the initiative aims to educate students and community members on environmental stewardship and climate-smart agriculture.
Henrietta Bangura, Project Officer at WOFHRAD-SL, emphasized that the selection of the ten schools was intentional, targeting areas facing the dual challenges of environmental degradation and food insecurity.
“These schools are not just beneficiaries they are partners in change,” she explained. “We’re providing fruit tree seedlings and supporting the establishment of Green Clubs that will nurture the plants and sustain the initiative long after the initial phase.”
The program has already received strong support from educators. Mohamed A. Bangura, Head Teacher at Young Muslim Primary School, highlighted how deforestation has impacted his community and school infrastructure, citing storm damage that could have been prevented with a stronger tree presence.
“This initiative is not only timely it’s necessary. We’ve seen firsthand the effects of climate change, and we’re ready to be part of the solution,” he said, pledging his school’s full commitment to the program.
Beyond tree planting, the Green Initiative aims to instill lasting values of environmental stewardship, increase food production through agroforestry, and empower young people and communities to become active participants in climate action.
In a country increasingly vulnerable to climate shocks, this school-centered approach offers a promising model for grassroots environmental transformation.
