In a collaborative effort to support forest conservation and empower local communities, the Rural Integrated Center for Community Empowerment (RICCE), in partnership with the American Jewish World Service (AJWS), recently engaged residents of Nimba’s forest communities. Speaking at a Joint Community Forest Management Body (JCFMB) stakeholders’ meeting, RICCE’s Gender Officer, Ms. Mary-rose Jacobs, emphasized the importance of sustainable forest use, particularly highlighting the role of women in conservation and management efforts.
Held under the theme “Enhancing Gender Inclusive Natural Resource Governance,” the meeting brought together over 50 stakeholders from various forest communities, including Gba, Zor, and Sehyi, as well as representatives from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and local government. This gathering served to reinforce the community’s understanding of forest conservation practices, women’s land rights, and the broader goals of sustainable resource governance.
Ms. Jacobs encouraged the community, especially women, to maximize the potential of their forests by utilizing Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), such as medicinal plants and fruits, as a way to foster environmental sustainability. She outlined RICCE and AJWS’s ongoing work in Nimba, which focuses on educating around 150 women in five forest communities—Gbobayee, Geipa, Kpolay, Dulay, and Sehtontuo—on their rights and responsibilities in forest management. Through partnerships with groups like the Zor Women Forest Forum, RICCE is actively raising awareness on critical issues like women’s land rights, forest conservation, and the inclusion of women in governance.
Stakeholders at the meeting also heard from Mr. Saye Thompson, Chairman of JCFMB, who thanked RICCE and AJWS for their support. He reported on recent achievements and ongoing initiatives within the community, which have been bolstered by contributions from the ArcelorMittal Biodiversity Conservation Program. These activities include patrolling community forests, conducting biomonitoring, clearing boundary lines, and supporting mini-projects, all of which are essential for sustainable forest management.
A highlight of JCFMB’s recent accomplishments includes securing substantial funding for community initiatives: $48,000 from ArcelorMittal to support JCFMB activities, a $30,000 land rental fee from SOLWAY for exploration on community land, and a new $80,000 Memorandum of Understanding with ArcelorMittal to continue funding forest management projects. These resources have contributed to tangible community improvements, such as constructing town halls, teacher accommodations, and guest houses, demonstrating how sustainable resource management can benefit the entire community.
Mr. El-Amara Konuwah, Chief Park Ranger for the FDA, emphasized the necessity of open communication and regular meetings to prevent misinformation, which he noted could potentially harm the community’s image and cohesion. He urged community members to prioritize accurate information sharing, a sentiment echoed by Ms. Jacobs, who highlighted the critical role of women in leadership. She advocated for the inclusion of women in decision-making, stressing that women’s involvement could foster effective management and a peaceful community.
This initiative reflects RICCE and AJWS’s commitment to strengthening local governance, enhancing gender inclusivity, and promoting sustainable forest use. By empowering women and encouraging responsible forest practices, RICCE continues to make strides toward a sustainable and equitable future for Liberia’s forest communities.