climate action

For many years, the forests surrounding the communities of Kanuma and Betta in the West Coast Region gradually declined due to ongoing tree cutting and limited replanting.

Over time, the loss of tree cover contributed to soil erosion, increased flooding, rising temperatures, and the disappearance of wildlife. These environmental changes have directly affected livelihoods, food systems, and the overall well-being of community members who depend on the land.

Recognizing these challenges, the communities, with support from ChildFund, came together to restore their environment.

Through ChildFund’s local partner, Foni Ding Ding Federation, residents of Kanuma and Betta planted 1,200 trees across their communities.

A total of 166 community members participated in the reforestation activity. Volunteers included farmers, youth, and local leaders, all working together with a shared understanding of the importance of forests to community resilience.

The trees planted will serve multiple purposes over time. They will help stabilize the soil, reduce flood risks, act as windbreaks, improve air quality, and gradually restore habitats for birds and other wildlife. More importantly, the initiative strengthens community ownership of natural resource management and reinforces long‑term environmental protection.

As Saikou Manneh, one of the volunteers, shared: “We know what the loss of trees has done to our land. By planting these trees ourselves, we are taking responsibility for protecting our environment and improving conditions for our children.”

Through this collective effort, the communities have taken an important step toward reversing environmental degradation. The work ahead will require continued care and commitment, but the foundations have been laid.