By: Aminata Sesay
In a landmark move toward environmental sustainability and grassroots climate action, the Tawuya Community in Gbinleh Chiefdom, Kambia District, has launched the Tawuya Woodlots Project a community-led forest restoration initiative supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)* and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
The project, officially launched on 14th June 2025, forms part of the Ministry’s People’s Centered and Sustainable Development Portfolio. It aims to provide rural communities with sustainable energy alternatives and livelihoods while tackling deforestation and the indiscriminate felling of trees.
Paramount Chief Alimamy Sorie, speaking at the launch event, emphasized the historical significance of forest cover once nurtured by their ancestors and expressed optimism about the project’s potential.
“This project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 13, which focuses on climate action,” he said.
The chief officially introduced the Tawuya Community Woodlots Committee, a local body responsible for managing and overseeing the project. He also appealed for logistical support, such as storage facilities for tools, to enhance project implementation.
Madam Kate Garnett, Director of Forestry at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, praised Tawuya’s exemplary track record in previous tree planting campaigns, noting that the community’s strong performance made it an ideal location for the new initiative.
“We are confident in your ability to lead this woodlot initiative,” she stated.
Garnett announced that over 10,000 seedlings, along with necessary farming tools, would be delivered to support the project. Funding has already been secured by UNDP, ensuring smooth execution.
Additionally, the Ministry will introduce clean and efficient cooking stoves in the community to reduce reliance on firewood and improve household health and energy efficiency.
Mohamed Mansarico Mansaray, Chairman of the Kambia District Council, hailed the project as a turning point in climate resilience for the district. He emphasized the importance of involving local councils in such initiatives for accountability, sustainability, and community ownership.
“These woodlots will bring tangible benefits such as better water retention, youth employment, and income generation,” Mansaray said.
Permanent Secretary Elizabeth Hawa Ellie, in her keynote address, stressed the need for by-laws to protect the newly planted trees and urged the community to take full ownership of the tools and outcomes.
“With unity and proper planning, this project will become a model for replication and attract more donor interest in other chiefdoms,” she affirmed.
The Ministry also pledged to respond to concerns previously raised by Paramount Chiefs regarding tree planting programs and promised transpare by District Forest Officers moving forward.
The event concluded with the symbolic handover of equipment to the Tawuya Community Woodlots Committee, marking not just the launch of a project but the rebirth of community-led environmental stewardship in Gbinleh Chiefdom.