A one-day workshop on the launching of two TCP, FAO-funded projects for the department of Forestry, ICP/ GAM and National Nutrition was Thursday held at the Paradise Suites Hotel in Kotu.
Officials from the Ministry of Forestry, Environment and Natural Resources, FAO representatives as well as stakeholders on forestry and environmental issues attended the workshop.
Abdoulie Sanneh, director of Forestry, said the workshop was very important, adding that it was well over due.
According to him, with the support of his department, the forestry department had made ceaseless efforts to ensure laws governing the forest reserve are implemented.
The importance of forestry cannot be overemphasised, Director Sanneh said, adding that population is increasing rapidly; that’s why forestry assessment is being conducted.
Mustapha Darboe, deputy permanent secretary at the Ministry of Forestry, said: “We will have the opportunity to validate the results obtained from this
“This is a challenging task and I urge that you work hard on it. Your expertise and experience combined in the validation of the document will ensure a useful product outcome that can serve us for many years ahead, especially in developing future forestry and allied institution strategic plans.
“This working document will enhance our quest to solve most of our socio-economic and ecological matters at national, regional and global levels.”
Marco Piazza, forestry consultant who delivered his statement on behalf of FAO Country Representative Dr. Ahmadou Babagana, noted that the implementation of the activities of the TCP took two years with a total budget of US$371,871.
He added that the main objectives of the TCP include assisting the government to build the national capacity for forestry resources and monitoring and sustaining forestry management.
It as well supports government’s efforts in strengthening the forestry sector, improving integrated management of ecosystem and building the capacity of the national institutions for monitoring and assessment through adoption of guidelines or innovative and internationally recognised approaches.
Mr Piazza added that the overall goals of the project are to support the national forestry programme, to contribute to sustainable natural resources management and to increase rural livelihood through improved forestry related activities while enhancing the capacity of forestry department personnel and others.
