Enoch Gyamfi-Ampadu
Other projects
10 Jan 2022
Community Engagement in Biodiversity Conservation and Monitoring through a Spatial and Temporal Change Detection Analysis of Lake Bosomtwe Biosphere Reserve, Ghana
The Talbotiella gentii (T. gentii) is an evergreen tree species endemic to Ghana. It grows to about 20m and occurs globally in dense near-monospecific habitats and among 22 classical monodominance species. Currently, the species is found in small and fragmented populations in the Yongwa and Sapawsu dry forest reserves and the Akwamufie and Anum Gorges in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The species is threatened due to charcoal production, agricultural expansion, and wildfires, which are gradually driving the species towards extinction. Reports indicate that there were 28 sub-populations of T. gentii habitats and many of these are depleted with only about less than 10 existing. Therefore, it is currently on the IUCN Red List as a Critically Endangered tree species. This makes T. gentii a high conservation priority in Ghana and efforts are required to contribute to its protection to prevent its extinction.
Talbotiella gentii trees. ©Enoch Gyamfi-Ampadu.
Hence, this project adopts a multidimensional approach that involves ecological restoration (tree planting) and community-level advocacy and awareness creation to enhance the conservation of T. gentii. Lastly, there will be tree species diversity and composition (TSDC) modelling of the stand/habitat. The ecological restoration (tree planting) initiative is meant to help increase the population of the species and preserve its gene pool. The priority will be on depleted portions of the habitats in the study sites as well as farms and some open spaces within the fringe communities. The community advocacy and training workshops will be used to raise awareness of the conservation status of T. gentii among the target fringe community. It will also be geared towards empowering and building their capacity to contribute to the conservation of the species. Locally feasible strategies will be developed to enhance their adoption for conserving the species.
The TSDC modelling will help to determine the level of tree biodiversity and associations of the habitats and enhance population monitoring. This component of the project is also expected to help in the development of improved conservation initiatives for the habitats. The project's approach aligns with the principles of biodiversity conservation, sustainable development and community well-being. It is also a contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 15 (Life on Land) and 13 (Climate Action).
Header: Akwamufie Gorge Community Forest. ©Enoch Gyamfi-Ampadu.