The Conservation Society Sierra Leone (CSSL), a national non-profit and non-governmental organisation, has played a vital role in the conservation and management of Sierra Leone’s natural habitants since it was established in 1982.
On Thursday September 24, 2020, CSSL observed its 34th anniversary by highlighting progress made so far in promoting the wise use and conservation of the country’s natural resources so that wildlife and people benefit.
The Executive Director of CSSL, Sheka Kamara said that for the past decades, the society has been at the forefront to protect endangered species and habitats, adding that this has been made possible by the support of dedicated members and donor partners in terms of programme funding, training and technical support.
He said that some off the achievements of the Society include, develop the Biodiversity Strategic action Plan for Sierra Leone; identify key biodiversity sites in Sierra Leone; partner with RSPB and government to establish the Gola Rainforest National Park; and collaborate with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to conduct the regional coastal and marine conservation programme to establish and manage Marine Protected Areas in the country.
The Executive Director said that they have also established over 50 nature clubs in schools; complete the Wild Bush Fire Prevention and Control project in the north; identify Sierra Leone River Estuary as Ramsar Site; participated in policy development and advocacy; identify important bird areas; embarked on tree planting/restoration activities in the country especially the Wester Area Peninsular Forest.
On ongoing Projects, the Executive Director spoke about Community-based Forest Management project at Kambui Hills in Kenema District which is funded by Aage V. Jensen Charity Foundation (AVJCF); the Diang Chiefdom Community Empowerment for Sustainable Forests and Wetlands project in Koinadugu District with funds from BMZ/EZE through Bread for the World-Protestant Development Service; Linking Food Security and Forest Conservation under REDD+ project in Kenema District with funds from Darwin Initiative; TFA 2020 Platform to develop and support national and regional principles for responsible oil palm development and sustainable palm oil production in sierra Leone, while addressing environmental targets for reduced deforestation, land use and greenhouse gases; and Community Landscape Management project to reduce deforestation and biodiversity loss in the Gola Trans-boundary Forest Landscape project funded by USAID, among others.
Challenges
Kamara said that lack of funds is one of the many challenges faced by the Society. He said that the organisation does not receive funding from government. “Raising unrestricted fund is a challenge,” he said.
Another challenge, he said, the Society sometimes don’t get backing from the government which makes their work challenging.
Kamara added that the organisation occupies a rented facility, adding that it is high time they have their own building.
By Alusine Sesay
25/09/2020. ISSUE NO: 7917