The Comoros is home to exceptional terrestrial biodiversity, but this natural wealth is threatened by deforestation, soil erosion, and the loss of fertile agricultural land. In a country where agriculture and livestock farming are essential to the livelihoods of the population, the disappearance of forests has direct consequences for local communities. In Anjouan, 80% of the natural forest area has disappeared between 1995 and 2014 according to the most elaborate analysis.
Faced with these challenges, reforestation presents itself as a sustainable solution. Rather than imposing reforestation projects, participatory reforestation actively involves farmers in the selection, planting, and maintenance of trees.
What is the participatory approach to reforestation?
The participatory approach to reforestation relies on the active involvement of the direct beneficiaries of the plantations, i.e., the farmers. Unlike many historical reforestation programs, this approach promotes the direct involvement of local communities, placing them at the heart of the tree planting and maintenance process. Since 2017, we have launched – with the support of the World Agroforestry Center (ICRAF) – this reforestation approach by working with farmers to jointly establish a list of tree species to be planted that will benefit both individuals and the environment.
Farmers choose the species to plant based on their needs: water conservation, soil fertilization, fruit production, erosion protection, or even wood supply. At the same time, they receive training on the ecosystem services provided by trees.
How does the participatory approach work?
It is essential that farmers understand the importance of reforestation. That's why Dahari organizes awareness sessions led by its technicians to explain how trees contribute to the environment and livelihoods.
1. Choice of species with farmers
During the workshops, participants select trees themselves based on their needs. To facilitate this selection, Dahari technicians use visual tools, such as card games illustrating the different species and their benefits. This process encourages discussion and allows for greater ownership of the project by the communities.
“This is the first time I’ve participated in a reforestation program. What motivated me was that at the very beginning, we were invited to choose the trees we wanted to plant ourselves. Dahari’s technicians explained to us the different services trees provide, and this helped us better understand their importance. I decided to get involved in this reforestation because if we don’t do it, no one else will. This action is essential for my grandchildren’s future. I chose certain fruit trees because, in addition to protecting the environment, they can feed us and provide other resources.”
Here are some examples of the products and services provided by trees:
- Murimundra (Weinmannia comorensis) : endemic species that fertilizes the soil and fights erosion.
- Mfanassi (Jackfruit) and Mlandzi (Mandarin) : fruit trees providing income, shade and fodder for livestock.
- Mfuantsi (Chrysophyllum gorungosanum) : native species used for construction and coal, while being compatible with agricultural crops.
2. Establishment of community nurseries
After species selection, tree seedlings are produced in community nurseries managed by trained farmers. This system not only ensures a constant supply of young trees, but also creates income-generating activities for the communities involved.
3. Monitoring and protection of trees
Reforestation assessment is based on monitoring the planted trees. Farmers are committed to maintaining and protecting them because they chose and planted them themselves. Dahari supports them throughout this process, providing advice on maintaining and managing the plantations.
In a nutshell
The participatory approach to reforestation has many advantages, both for the environment and for local populations. By involving farmers from the beginning of the project, training them and allowing them to choose the species that meet their needs, this method ensures effective and sustainable reforestation. From the choice of species, to nursery management, to planting, it is a cycle reflects for better reforestation.
