The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will host a major conference tomorrow, bringing together community leaders, activists, government officials, and international conservation organizations to explore solutions to Sierra Leone’s environmental challenges.
Minister Jiwoh Abdulai stated that the event aims to attract significant investment to support the protection and preservation of the country’s forests.
“This conference will bring together leading international conservation groups that are actively working in this space. They will share expertise, and engage directly with local stakeholders, including traditional leaders who are the custodians of the land. The goal is to build partnerships and attract investment focused on forest conservation,” Minister Abdulai said during an interview on AYV.
The National Forest and Climate Forum will be held at the Bintumani Conference Center from Tuesday to Thursday this week. According to Minister Abdulai, the central objective of the forum is to foster collaboration between communities and major conservation groups to unlock the full potential of Sierra Leone’s forests. The conference will be officially launched by President Julius Maada Bio.
A key highlight of the event will be the launch of a new national initiative titled "Protect Sierra Leone." As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Environment has engaged Paramount Chiefs and local authorities across the country to build support for the protection of Sierra Leone’s rapidly depleting forests.
“We traveled across the country, engaging with chiefs and community stakeholders in all regions, discussing strategies to protect our forests,” the Minister said.
Minister Abdulai emphasized that the success of the initiative depends on collective action and cross-sector collaboration.
“We must work together to protect Sierra Leone. This responsibility doesn't rest solely with the ministry—it requires the involvement of everyone,” he said, underscoring the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
“We need to address these challenges now. It is crucial that we act today to safeguard tomorrow.”