By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Newspaper
A coalition led by the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary has wrapped up a four-day community awareness campaign to curb deforestation across eight communities in the Western Area Peninsula National Park.
The initiative was delivered under the Sustainable and Integrated Landscape Management of the Western Area Peninsula Project, with support from the Government of Sierra Leone, the United Nations Development Programme, and the Global Environment Facility.
The campaign reached Markobeh, Robgelor, Tokeh, River Number Two, Sussex, Last Banking in Aberdeen, Barthurst, and Charlotte. The communities were selected due to recent spikes in forest clearing for agriculture, logging, infrastructure, stone mining, and charcoal production.
Officials said the loss of forest cover in the Peninsula is driving biodiversity decline, accelerating climate impacts, degrading soils, disrupting water cycles, and threatening the livelihoods of residents who depend on forest resources.
Despite previous efforts by government and NGOs, Tacugama noted that gaps in awareness and community participation remain. The campaign was designed to address that by equipping residents with information and tools for conservation.
Organizers focused on educating community members on the causes and effects of deforestation, promoting sustainable alternatives, and encouraging the creation of local environmental protection groups. The effort also sought to improve coordination among residents, local authorities, and environmental stakeholders.
The outreach used a participatory model. Local leaders helped mobilize participants, while facilitators conducted interactive workshops in each community using local languages, posters, and storytelling. Topics included climate change, biodiversity, and practices that reduce pressure on forests.
The project targets increased awareness among at least 80 percent of residents in the eight communities, a measurable reduction in deforestation-linked activities, and stronger collaboration between communities and environmental agencies.
Tacugama said the campaign aims to trigger a grassroots shift toward environmental responsibility around the Peninsula and lay the groundwork for long-term stewardship.
For more information contact Daily Scope Newspaper: dailyscopemedia@gmail.com
