Table of Contents
Restoring the Land by the LEAN Project
A significant environmental restoration effort has been achieved in the Kassena-Nankana West District, where 425 hectares of previously degraded land, affected by illegal mining, indiscriminate tree felling, and sand winning, have been rehabilitated. This restoration is thanks to the LEAN project, implemented by World Vision Ghana, an international not-for-profit organization, with support from the European Union (EU).
Empowering Local Communities
The LEAN project, which aims to improve environmental conditions and livelihoods, has provided training to 500 Community Fire volunteers and 500 lead farmers in 25 communities. These communities, including Saaka, Badunu, Chania, Nania, Babile, and others, have adopted the Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) concept, a core component of the project.
Impact on Agriculture and Environment
Anas Abdul-Nashiru Wechu, a local farmer from Navio, shared the positive effects of the FMNR concept, noting how it has mitigated the impacts of climate change and contributed to poverty reduction in the community. Economic trees, such as shea nuts, baobabs, and redberries, have been protected, and many residents have taken up beekeeping as a sustainable income source.
In the Navio Electoral Area, three people from each community were selected to receive beekeeping training and hives. This has become a significant economic activity for both youth and adults, offering additional opportunities for local development.
Environmental Improvements
Bismark Kwotuah, Chairman of the LEAN project in the Boani/Banyono Electoral Area, praised the project’s success, noting that the community has not experienced significant environmental degradation for two years after its implementation. The early rains this year, unlike the previous dry spells caused by tree-cutting, were also attributed to the positive impact of the project.
Supporting Farmers with Tools
The EU LEAN project has also equipped farmers with essential tools such as cutlasses, sickles, pruning knives, and hand gloves, aiding in the management of shrubs and the protection of newly grown trees. These efforts are contributing to sustainable farming practices and environmental protection in the district.
Project Overview
LEAN is a four-year initiative funded by the EU, targeting 6,000 beneficiaries in the underserved communities of the Kassena-Nananka West District. The project aligns with national efforts to conserve biodiversity, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and enhance climate resilience in the savannah, high forest, and transition zones of Ghana.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The project is a consortium led by World Vision Ghana, alongside Tropenbos Ghana, Ecorecare Ghana, and Rainforest as the lead implementer. In addition to the Upper East Region, the project is also being rolled out in the West Gonja District of the Savannah Region, focusing on landscape governance, forest protection, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods for smallholder farmers.
Through these efforts, the LEAN project is not only rehabilitating the environment but also empowering local communities to build sustainable futures. The combination of environmental restoration and economic development is making a lasting impact in the region.
