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Sierra Leone |
Supporting Sierra Leone
We have a 20-year history of supporting front line conservation in Sierra Leone, but why Sierra Leone? It has some of the most wildlife-rich forest remaining in West Africa with wildlife of global significance. We have profound and enduring links with the small, but determined, conservation community there. Working in partnershipOur sister organisation is the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone (CSSL). During the difficult days of the country’s civil war (1990s) and afterwards, their unflagging dedication has been an inspiration. In spite of the turmoil, CSSL managed to carry out surveys of the Important Bird Areas of the country and produce a 5-volume environmental education resource book for teachers. We provided continued support during these years. Sierra Leone is now very much a country on the road to recovery. It has been stable since the end of the civil conflict in 2002. The country completed its second peacetime democratic elections in August 2007. These were widely lauded as free, fair and credible and seen as the determination of the people to put the past behind them. Forward thinkingThe Government of Sierra Leone has been remarkably forward-looking in putting environmental sustainability at the heart of its post-conflict reconstruction and development plans. The RSPB and CSSL are supporting these endeavours by collaborating with the National Commission on the Environment and Forestry. 'Sierra Leone has some of the most wildlife-rich forest remaining in West Africa' Through the Commission, the Government of Sierra Leone is embarking on an ambitious project to develop its national parks and attract visitors to its spectacular wilderness areas in the coming years. The country has excellent potential for environmental tourism, particularly considering the range of environments that are packed into such a small country. A rich diversitySierra Leone is home to extensive and diverse wetlands, coastal and marine habitats, West Africa’s highest mountain (Mount Loma at 2,000m) and support both savannah and rainforests in close proximity. This is remarkable for a country one-third the size of England. The proposed National Park network will go a long way in ensuring this becomes a reality. Last modified: 28 August 2007 |
Minsmere RSPB Reserve, general view of Boomacre Mere - David Tipling (rspb-images.com)
Hummingbird hawkmoth - Steve Round
Tree sparrow perched on branch in woodland - Sue Tranter (rspb-images.com, Ref: 1018091)