By Millicent Senava Mannah
In a world grappling with the consequences of environmental degradation and climate change, a beacon of hope has emerged in the form of the Wanwod Development Organization. Founded on the belief that education and awareness are essential to combat the looming environmental crisis, this organization is taking proactive steps to transform the fate of communities deeply affected by reckless environmental practices.
Growing up in communities where the majority are illiterates and unaware of their poor and degrading environmental activities made me believe that he who feels it, knows it well. Wanwod Development Organization recognizes the pressing need to address this issue head-on. The deliberate and indiscriminate environmental degradation caused by unsafe mining, deforestation for charcoal production, timber logging, and firewood harvesting has led to catastrophic consequences. The result is a climate crisis, marked by poor agricultural yields, hunger, scarce drinking water, and the extinction of precious wildlife and natural ecosystems.
These perilous environmental practices have not only endangered the environment but also posed a severe threat to human existence. According to the Global Forest Watch, between 2001 and 2021, a staggering 1.8 million trees were lost, accounting for a 32% decrease in tree cover in the region.
Despite these alarming statistics, a vast majority remains unaware of the imminent dangers of climate change. Extreme weather events are on the rise, further imperiling plants, animals, and the environment as a whole. Instead of implementing sustainable solutions like afforestation, selective deforestation, and climate-smart agriculture, the focus often shifts towards archaic cultural practices, such as appeasing traditional gods for bountiful harvests.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Wanwod Development Organization has taken action. They view these practices as a result of inadequate education and awareness regarding environmental degradation’s perils. Their response is a call for urgent and robust capacity-building training for smallholder farmers on climate awareness and increased youth participation in agriculture.
Wanwod Development Organization firmly believes that when done correctly, agriculture can be a potent tool for tackling food security, the climate crisis, inequality, and environmental destruction simultaneously. Their commitment to practicing agriculture in a sustainable manner is at the heart of their mission.
To address these pressing issues, the organization has initiated practical, scalable, and replicable initiatives. These initiatives encompass a wide range of activities, including commercial cash crop farming, responsible forest management, the introduction of improved polyclonal seedlings, seed propagation training, the establishment of a Farmers Business School, and a demonstration farm.
The organization’s accomplishments speak volumes. Currently, they have established over 20 acres of cashew nut farms, a plantain farm boasting 300 suckers, and the transplantation of 650 improved cashew nut seedlings.
Wanwod Development Organization’s commitment to improving the lives of those affected by environmental degradation extends beyond agricultural initiatives. They have donated school materials worth $550 to school-going pupils in Gbonkoh Section, Ward 227, Sandamagbolonthor Chiedom, Karene District for three consecutive years. Additionally, they have provided training to 200 farmers, 25 cooperatives, and 8 registered members, all of whom are now part of the National Federation of Farmers. The organization has also conducted three climate awareness campaigns in the Sanda Magbolontor chiefdom.
To continue their vital work and expand their reach, Wanwod Development Organization is actively seeking partnerships and funding opportunities. Your support can make a significant difference in their mission to combat environmental degradation and build a sustainable future.
For more information, you can contact them through WhatsApp at +232-76-661-701 or via email at wnawoddevelopment2017@gmail.com. You can also connect with them on LinkedIn here and on Facebook here.
Wanwod Development Organization stands as a beacon of hope in the face of environmental adversity, working tirelessly to create a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
