One of the leading environmental organizations in the world, Conservation International has announced its strong backing for Sierra Leone’s environmental ambitions. Executive Vice President of the organization, Daniela Raik said supporting Sierra Leone is a ‘global imperative’.
Raik made the remarks in her speech at the country’s firs t ever Forest and Climate Forum organized in Freetown.
“I stand before you deeply inspired by the vision that Sierra Leone has set forth for a sustainable and resilient future,” she said, while stating the strong backing of Conservation International.
“Today I will like to share Conservation International’s strong support for Sierra Leone’s conservation and climate vision, as well as the critical role we all play in ensuring this vision is realized.”
During the opening of the conference, Sierra Leone’s minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai announced a four pillar plan to protect the country’s environment.
The plan is part of a broader vision under the Protect Sierra Leone program. The four pillar plan includes; Protect the most critical terrestrial biodiversity through integrated landscape, Scale up community forests, Sustainably manage the country’s marine resources and Reduce deforestation.
“We want to protect it (environment) because it is in our best interest. Protection of natural resources is vital for our survival,” Minister Abdulai said.
Raik said the country’s ambitions is not just a local priority, it has a global impact.
“Sierra Leone’s ambitions to protect its local biodiversity is not just a local priority, it has far reaching global implications. This country’s heritage is one of the greatest and we are proud to support its conservation for current and future generations,” she reaffirmed.
Sierra Leone has one of the richest biodiversity profile, with lush forest and sprawling mangroves across the coast of the West African nation, Raik said protecting these ecosystems is a ‘global imperative’
Conservation International did not just announced its support for Sierra Leone’s environmental work, the organization is backing its support with action. VP Raik announced that the organization will open a local office in Sierra Leone to give “a more focused and tailored support” for the country’s conservation efforts.
