To address the country’s environmental challenges and attract major investment in forest conservation, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will host the National Forest and Climate Forum at the Bintumani Conference Center from Tuesday 18 to 20 March 2025. The high-profile event will bring together community leaders, environmental activists, Government officials and international conservation organizations.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, highlighted the significance of the forum, emphasizing its role in fostering partnerships and securing funding for sustainable forest preservation.
“This conference will unite leading international conservation groups who are actively engaged in forest protection. They will share their expertise and collaborate directly with local stakeholders, including traditional leaders who are the custodians of the land. Our aim is to develop partnerships that will attract investment and drive sustainable conservation efforts,” Minister Jiwoh Abdulai stated in an interview on AYV.
The forum will officially be launched by President Julius Maada Bio, signaling the Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability. A major highlight of the event will be the introduction of a national initiative titled: ‘Protect Sierra Leone’, designed to reinforce forest conservation efforts across the country.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry has engaged Paramount Chiefs and local authorities nationwide to garner support for protecting Sierra Leone’s rapidly depleting forests. The Minister noted that extensive consultations have been conducted with community stakeholders in all regions to develop effective conservation strategies.
“We have traveled across the country, engaging with chiefs and local stakeholders to discuss concrete strategies for protecting our forests. Their involvement is crucial in ensuring the success of this initiative,” he said.
The Minister also stressed the need for collective action, urging all sectors of society to play a role in environmental conservation.
“We must work together to safeguard Sierra Leone’s natural resources. This responsibility extends beyond the Ministry; it is a national duty that requires the participation of all citizens, investors and conservation partners,” he emphasized.
Jiwoh Abdulai further underscored the urgency of the situation, calling for immediate action to protect the country’s forests for future generations.
“We need to address these challenges now. It is imperative that we take action today to secure a sustainable environment for tomorrow,” he concluded.
The National Forest and Climate Forum is expected to serve as a platform for crucial discussions, innovative solutions and concrete commitments to ensuring Sierra Leone’s forests remain a vital national treasure.
