We are excited to share the latest update on our community forest initiatives. These projects mark an important step in empowering local communities, conserving endangered species, and promoting sustainable livelihoods in Cameroon’s East Region.

Legal and Ecological Opportunities

Cameroon’s Forestry Law of 2024 empowers local communities to sustainably manage forest resources, linking improved livelihoods with biodiversity conservation. In this context, we have been supporting the establishment of community forests in the Deng Deng National Park – Dja Faunal Reserve corridor, a critical landscape for wildlife connectivity.

This corridor is a vital pathway for great apes, forest elephants, and other endangered species, yet it faces growing threats from habitat fragmentation and expanding subsistence agriculture. Our community forest projects are designed to protect these species while providing local communities with sustainable economic opportunities.

Communities United Around Conservation

The launch events for these community forests have brought together residents, neighboring village leaders, local authorities, and media representatives, reflecting strong local ownership. Communities have committed to:

• Collaborating with ACF, ERuDeF, and forestry authorities to establish and manage community forests
• Protecting endangered wildlife while exploring eco-tourism opportunities
• Developing value chains and sustainable livelihoods to generate long-term income
• Ensuring inclusive participation of men, women, and youth in forest management
• Supporting the creation of community trust funds to secure sustainable financing for conservation in the corridor

Building Trust on the Ground

Prior to formal launches, our teams conducted field visits to engage with communities, finalize logistics, and ensure local commitment. Leaders expressed gratitude for the long-term support and reaffirmed their eagerness to see the projects succeed.

Looking Ahead

These community forest initiatives are more than forest protection—they are pathways to local development, environmental stewardship, and wildlife conservation. With the continued support of donors and partners, ACF will continue helping communities develop sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding forest elephants, great apes, and other threatened species in this critical rainforest corridor.