Ghana
Through reforestation and agroforestry in our project in Ghana, we help combat poverty and create a resilient, future-proof ecosystem.
Through reforestation and agroforestry in our project in Ghana, we help combat poverty and create a resilient, future-proof ecosystem.
The Bongo District is located in the Sahel and two thirds of its population live below the poverty line. The project area possesses the water reservoir of the VEA Dam. Farmers depend on the dam for the irrigation of their lands and it provides drinking water for the surrounding villages. Large scale logging in combination with the effects of climate change have had a strong impact on the reservoir. The water is murky and the shores and adjacent fields are subjected to strong erosion.
trees planted
ha agroforestry
ha riperian forests
people who have work & income
people in total benefiting from the project
In order to break this vicious circle Trees for All commits itself to planting 215,000 trees for agroforestry and reforestation of the riparian zones. Twenty villages are involved in the project and 1600 farmers will be trained in sustainable land use practices and tree maintenance. Besides valuable tree species like caschew and shea, a variety of native species will be planted. For example the Dawa dawa tree, a tree that grows pods with local market value.
The aim of the Bongo project is to reverse the degradation of the land, to strengthen the protective functions of the river and to create jobs for the local farmers. Particularly for female and young, starting farmers. This way we combat poverty and protect the environment.
Planting will take place in the villages surrounding the VEA Dam reservoir.
Tree Aid is our implementing partner. They have extensive experience with the sustainable use of land and natural resources in this area. Tree Aid has an experienced and dedicated team on site to coordinate and monitor the project activities. The entire team is originally from the Bongo District and therefore speaks the local language. Besides their knowledge, this is of great importance to gain the trust from the village communities.
Apart from Tree Aid we work together with the Blue Deal, a program from Dutch Water Authorities and the Dutch Ministries of Foreign Affairs and of Infrastructure and Water Management with the aim to provide access to sufficient, clean and safe water to 20 million people in 2030. With our Bongo Project we actively contribute to this aim.
“In Ghana people say ‘Water is life’. Water retention is crucial and trees have an important part to play.”
— Jaap Bos, Coordinator Blue Deal North-Ghana