
Restoration training for the Mangrove Capital Africa Program
Location: Toubacouta, Saloum Delta, Senegal
Date: April 2018
Goal: To train participants in Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR) and facilitate knowledge exchange between restoration projects
Partners

The CBEMR training is helping the Mangrove Capital Africa programme to deliver on their restoration goals

Representatives from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau shared insights and worked together on mangrove restoration strategies
Local community members were invited to the field training to share their knowledge and concerns
What we did
Sharing experiences amongst participants was critical to the learning process. A representative from Wetlands International Africa delivered a presentation on the 180,000 ha Saloum Delta, with a focus on the region’s 65,000 ha of mangroves. It highlighted human-driven degradation and the climate pressures faced by these vital ecosystems. His presentation also discussed the MCA programme’s approach, planned activities, and the selection of field sites within the Delta. Representatives from other organisations also presented case studies on their mangrove restoration activities across Senegal and Guinea-Bissau and the lessons learned.
From the field visits and group discussions, it became evident that local communities heavily rely on mangrove wood and wood from other sources for various purposes: cooking, fish smoking (a key local industry), construction, and for sale. This demand highlights the need for a holistic approach in mangrove-related programs. Successful reforestation efforts and demand reduction strategies must consider the livelihoods of local communities, offering alternative fuel and material sources. Moreover, the importance of protecting existing mangroves emerged as a top priority, with participants recognising that conservation efforts should take precedence over restoration or afforestation efforts.












Interested in working with us?
Get in touch with us at dominic@mangroveactionproject.org
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