Conception of one action plan with the Regional Directorate of Fisheries and Blue Economy (DRPEB) of Diana
In close collaboration with the Regional Directorate of Fishing and the Blue Economy of Diana, with whom we developed an action plan for the implementation of all the activity, mutually approved and signed.
It is always necessary to establish synergy with the partners concerned in order to be able to implement the planned activities effectively and efficiently.
Based on the results of the biodiversity assessments, the NCW undertook a re-zoning of the protected area. Different zones were established according to biodiversity needs.
The reintroduction program was also seen as an effort to restore the habitat itself. By bringing back these species, the NCW aimed to re-establish the natural processes that had been disrupted by their absence. Measures were taken to restore the natural habitat of these species to ensure successful reintroduction.
NCW successfully reintroduced Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica), Arabian Gazelle (Gazella arabica), and Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) into the protected area, carefully selecting individuals from healthy captive bred populations while ensuring genetic diversity. Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) has also been reintroduced successfully in the area.
This building block focuses on the establishment of agroforestry systems in the villages of Ebéa and Maloumba, benefiting indigenous Bakola/Bagyeli communities. The system integrates cacao, plantain, and non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to provide diversified livelihoods and improve food security. Agroforestry helps reduce deforestation by promoting sustainable land use while enhancing soil fertility and increasing resilience to climate change. This initiative not only generates income for indigenous communities but also preserves their cultural heritage by combining traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices.
Land ownership: Securing land rights for indigenous communities is crucial for the success of agroforestry.
Training and capacity building: Providing education on sustainable farming practices and crop management is essential for long-term success.
Access to markets: Ensuring that communities have access to markets to sell their products motivates participation and economic growth.
Inclusive planning: Engaging all members of the community, including women and youth, strengthens the project’s impact.
Diversification: Integrating various crops and NTFPs reduces economic risks and enhances food security.
Ensure that initial training is comprehensive and includes post-implementation support, as communities may face challenges in maintaining agroforestry systems without proper guidance.
The introduction of improved stoves in Lokoundjé addresses both environmental and economic challenges. These stoves, measuring 5 meters by 1.3 meters, significantly reduce the need for wood by increasing fuel efficiency, which directly contributes to the conservation of mangroves. By tripling the production of smoked fish, the stoves also boost local economies. The stoves were designed and built with community participation, ensuring that they meet local needs while reducing pressure on natural resources.
Community involvement: Full participation of the community in the design and construction process ensures that the stoves are culturally appropriate and fit for purpose.
Technical support: Access to experts for the design and maintenance of the stoves ensures their long-term functionality.
Economic incentives: The ability to increase fish production and income encourages widespread adoption.
Community buy-in: Involving users in the design process improves adoption and long-term use.
Sustainability: Without proper training, the stoves may not be maintained, leading to reduced effectiveness over time.
Ensure that ongoing technical support and follow-up training are provided to maintain stove efficiency and functionality in the long term.
This building block involves the reforestation of degraded mangrove areas in Lokoundjé. Through the planting of 6000 mangrove seedlings across 4 hectares, the initiative aims to restore essential ecosystem services provided by mangroves, such as carbon sequestration, flood protection, and fisheries support. Local communities, particularly indigenous groups like the Bakola/Bagyeli, are actively involved in the planting and monitoring of mangrove health, reinforcing both ecological and social sustainability.
Community involvement: The involvement of local communities, particularly those directly affected, is essential to ensure the continuity of maintenance.
Availability of seedlings: Access to healthy mangrove seedlings and training in appropriate planting techniques are necessary for successful reforestation.
Government support: Legal support to protect reforested areas from exploitation also ensures the sustainability of restoration efforts.
Commitment is essential: Giving communities the means to replace damaged seedlings fosters a sense of ownership.
Resilience in reforestation: Regular monitoring and replacement of seedlings, particularly in difficult environments, is essential to the success of the project.
It is important to plan post-planting maintenance and to involve stakeholders early in the process to help avoid neglect of newly reforested areas.
