Forestry-related input into relevant policies at the regional and global levels: an African perspective on climate change

• Published in: The international forestry review Vol. 17; no. 3; pp. 92 - 102
• Main Authors: Kojwang, H. Ochieng, Larwanou
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Commonwealth Forestry Association 07.09.2015
• Subjects: Adaptation; Climate Change; Forest Policies; Mitigation; REDD
• ISSN: 1465-5489; 2053-7778
• DOI: 10.1505/146554815816007054

This paper describes regional forestry and forestry-related policies of the Sub-Saharan Region of Africa, with a view to reveal and discuss their influence on both regionional cooperation, national programmes and the participation of women, children and the vulnerable in forestry practice. All Regional Economic Commissions (RECs) of Sub-Saharan Africa have regional forestry policies which are reflected in Forest Convergence Plans (Central and West Africa), special commissions such as COMIFAC of Central Africa, policies and protocols (East and Southern Africa). The Great Green Wall of the Sahara and Sahel Initiative (GGWSSI) is also relevant. Despite promising developments in Central Africa, through programmes promoted under COMIFAC and those promoted in southern Africa by SADC, the influence of regional policies on the development of national actions still remains weak and should be strengthened by increased national actions. Linking forestry to climate change adaption and mitigation in addition to traditional economic activities associated efforts would seem to offer new opportunities. Recommendations on how to improve the influence of these policies and promote the gainful participation of women, children and the vulnerable in forestry are suggested.