The World Food Programme (WFP), with support from the European Union, has on February 11, 2025 unveiled a new study highlighting extensive deforestation in the Western Area Peninsula National Park (WAPNP). The report, based on satellite imagery analysis, reveals that 715 hectares of forest cover were lost or severely degraded in 2024 alone; an area equivalent to 1,330 football fields. Overall, WAPNP has lost 5,600 hectares, accounting for nearly one-third of its total forest cover.
The findings were made possible through WFP’s ‘Asset Impact Monitoring (AIMS)’ service, which employs remote sensing and GIS technology to monitor environmental changes. The data was cross-verified by Government agencies, the United Nations and civil society organizations.
The study attributes the majority of forest loss to fires, often set by land grabbers clearing land for housing construction. Already, thousands of unauthorized structures have been built within the park. In 2024, satellite monitoring identified 220 fire hotspots, signaling a significant rise in destructive activities. Additionally, unauthorized granite quarries have been operating within WAPNP since 2021, further contributing to deforestation.
“The loss of primary forests not only endangers critically threatened species like the western chimpanzee but also weakens the ecosystem’s ability to withstand environmental stressors,” said Yvonne Forsen, WFP Representative and Country Director.
Deforestation poses a severe threat to Freetown’s primary water supply. Trees are being felled dangerously close to the Guma Valley Dam, which provides water to 90% of the capital’s residents. The loss of forest cover results in increased silt and sedimentation in the reservoir, making water purification costlier. These rising costs are likely to be passed on to consumers, many of whom are already struggling economically.
Beyond water security, deforestation increases the risk of devastating mudslides and the potential failure of the Guma Dam, which could lead to catastrophic loss of life and the collapse of Freetown’s main water source.
Classified as a national park in 2012, WAPNP has also been proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status due to its ecological significance and natural beauty. The park was once home to lush forested hills stretching to white sand beaches. Under its protected status, activities such as construction, quarrying and farming are strictly prohibited.
However, recent field inspections conducted by the UN, the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA), the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWMA) and the National Disaster Management Agency uncovered widespread violations. Teams found dozens of individuals clearing land and erecting buildings within the park. Further investigations revealed evidence of deforestation for charcoal production and drone footage captured images of a marijuana farm within the protected area. Additionally, unauthorized granite quarries were detected, underscoring the scale of illegal activities within WAPNP.
Expressing deep concern over these findings, EU Chargé d’Affaires Gerald Hatler stated: “The alarming rate of deforestation threatens Sierra Leone’s environmental sustainability and Freetown’s water security. If such activities persist even near the capital, it raises broader concerns about ecosystem protection nationwide. However, this crisis also presents an opportunity for urgent, decisive action. The government has shown commitment to addressing this issue and with stronger enforcement, there is still time to reverse the damage.”
This latest report is part of a series of studies by WFP to assess deforestation trends in WAPNP. The organization acknowledges EU contributions that enable ongoing monitoring and analysis. WFP warns that at the current rate of forest loss, WAPNP could see two-thirds of its forest cover disappear by 2035.
“These findings should serve as a wake-up call,” said Yvonne Forsen. “We now understand the scale and speed of the destruction, the risks involved and the factors driving it. The next step is collective action with the Government to prevent the park’s complete disappearance.”
As deforestation accelerates, conservationists, policymakers and community stakeholders must work together to protect one of Sierra Leone’s most vital natural assets before it is too late.
