CBFF - Alternatives to Mangrove Destruction for Women's Livelihoods in Central Africa

This project focuses on the restoration of degraded mangroves in the African equatorial forest. Through this project, OPED aims to transform the local fishing industry by providing energy-efficient solutions for cutting trees to smoke fish, the main factor in the loss of mangrove forests in the region. The project addresses the concerns of reducing human pressure on mangroves and increasing the resilience of women. Indeed, the UNEP report on the state of mangroves in West Africa (2007, 1980-2006) indicates that Cameroon is losing more than 3000 ha of mangroves per year over a total area of ??about 200 000 ha (about 1.1%). Statistics attribute 80% of mangrove losses to fish smoking practices, the main livelihood activity of women in Cameroon's coastal zone. The project is thus promoting new treatment techniques that ensure the regeneration and conservation of local mangrove forests while reducing the time spent on wood research and the frequency of respiratory diseases.