By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
The Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL) recently organized a capacity-building workshop for the National REDD+ Technical Committee and community stakeholders. Held on May 27, 2025, at the CSSL Conference Hall on Kingharman Road, Freetown, the event aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the Warsaw Framework for REDD+ as part of ongoing efforts to combat deforestation and climate change.
Edward Sesay, Head of Programmes at CSSL, opened the workshop by outlining its objectives, emphasizing the initiative’s goal of strengthening national responses to deforestation. He highlighted the collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure the project’s success. “The REDD+ project is part of a broader initiative funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to increase national awareness and action against deforestation and climate change,” he stated.
Mr. Sahr Kallie, Deputy Director of Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment, discussed the ongoing partnerships with development organizations, reporting that over 2,200 trees have been planted nationwide as part of efforts to support the REDD+ framework.
Dr. Peter D. Musa, a Technical Consultant, addressed the remaining gaps in REDD+ implementation and facilitated key training sessions for participants. Meanwhile, Amidu David Mansaray, Environmental and Social Consultant, presented on the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), focusing on engagement with indigenous communities and discussing potential challenges with practical recommendations.
Dr. Osman Nabay, the REDD+ Road Map Consultant, provided an update on the REDD+ Road Map, detailing strategic milestones and timelines for implementation.
Francis Sowa, PhD, Esq., a REDD+ Communication Expert, underscored the importance of information sharing and stakeholder engagement, calling for enhanced collaboration during data collection and effective coordination among stakeholders.
Concluding the technical presentations, Dr. Gbessay Ehlogima Sam Momoh delivered insights on the Cancun Safeguards, the Warsaw Framework, and the Paris Agreement, explaining their significance to REDD+ initiatives and Sierra Leone’s climate commitments.
The workshop is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening REDD+ governance and implementation in Sierra Leone while enhancing cooperation between the government, civil society, and local communities.
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