Context:
Cameroon is home to large areas of forest. They are vital for the livelihoods of the rural population and the economy. They are also significant in terms of global climate protection and biodiversity. However, the forest is suffering and shrinking due to overexploitation, illegal logging and the expansion of agriculture and mining. Indigenous communities and women in particular are heavily dependent on the forests. However, they are underrepresented in decision-making processes and economic participation. The Government of Cameroon has categorised the forestry and timber industry as strategically important in the national development strategy for 2020 to 2030 (Stratégie Nationale de Développement 2020 à 2030, SND30). It recognises that good governance is important in order to structurally change the economy.
Objective:
The transformation of the forestry and timber industry towards greater sustainability has been consolidated.
Approach:
The project advises ministries and forest-managing municipalities and communities. The focus is on:
Improving transparency and legality through digital verification and traceability systems for wood.
Expanding good governance in forest management.
Networking producers, processors, retailers and distributors to promote sustainable business models with wood and non-wood forest products. In particular, residual wood from sawmills is to be utilised.
Promoting the self-determination of indigenous peoples and women so that they can influence decisions that affect their rights and economic participation.
Improving legislation so that authorities increase funding for forest-related climate and biodiversity protection.