MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and partners, has validated two key baseline studies to guide forest conservation efforts under the European Union-funded LEH GO GREEN project.
The validation exercise, held in Monrovia, brought together stakeholders from government, local communities, and conservation organizations to review findings that will shape interventions in the Gola and Grebo-Krahn landscapes—areas that account for a significant share of Liberia’s remaining Upper Guinea forest ecosystem.
According to UNDP, the studies will serve as a foundation for evidence-based planning, implementation, and monitoring, helping to define conservation priorities and track progress in both biodiversity protection and community livelihoods.
The project combines environmental protection with economic support for forest-dependent communities, introducing initiatives such as climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, and alternative livelihoods including snail and cane rat farming to reduce pressure on forest resources.
Once finalized, the findings will also inform the development of Community Conservation Agreements (CCAs) and measurable indicators to assess climate and livelihood outcomes, marking a shift toward more structured and accountable conservation planning.
The LEH GO GREEN project, a multi-year initiative funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP and FDA, aims to strengthen sustainable forest management while improving livelihoods in communities surrounding Liberia’s key forest landscapes.
David S Johnson
David S. Johnson is a seasoned Liberian investigative journalist and multimedia professional who has been active in the media industry since 2016. After serving in various reporting and administrative roles for several prominent local news outlets, he transitioned into media ownership as the founder of The Point Africa News and Media Consultancy Agency Inc. Based in Monrovia, his registered agency provides a comprehensive blend of local, regional, and global news coverage.
