web viewfinal report . establishment of the bong county forest forum. sponso. r. ed. by fao in...

FINAL REPORT

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BONG COUNTY FOREST FORUM

SPONSORED BY FAO IN COLABORATION WITH THE FORESTRY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (FDA), IMPLEMENTED BY THE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE & FORESTRY STUDENT ASSOCIATION

(CAFSA)

COMMUNITY FOREST IN BELEFENAH, ZOTA DISTRICT BONG COUNTY REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE CONTENT

1. INTRODUCTION2. BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES3-4 ACTIVITIES, RESULTS & LESSON LEARNT5-6 COMMENT, MOTHODOLOGY, HUMAN RESOURCE & LOGISTICS7. CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION8-10 APPENDNIX I10. APPENDNIX II11-12 APPENDNIX III13-22 APPENDNIX IV23-24 APPENDNIX V25-26 APPENDNIX VI27-29 APPENDNIX VII

2

INTRODUCTION

The Letter of Agreement (LoA) signed between the College Agriculture and Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) and the National Forest Programme Facility (NFP) of FAO in collaboration with the Forestry Development Authority FDA in February 2010 mediates CAFSA to identify Stakeholders in the forest sector and conduct analysis studies at Clan, District, and Chiefdom level, conduct workshops, vet drafted constitution, conduct election, and present elected officers to the County Authority in Bong County. The LoA request Stakeholders analysis from diverse backgrounds to be identify base on there interest, characteristic, concern, the issue of forest proximity, ideological difference about sustainable forest management in Liberia, traditional rights over forest and existence legislative rights.

The analysis took into account the organizational approached (local& international) to the forest related products, services and the option of grouping unorganized groups for vested capacity building which will serve as enhancement for the formation of the Bong County Forest Forum.

Moreover, the LoA request The College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) to conduct workshop with hundred (100) participants in four (4) different locations in Bong County.

In view of the above, the College of Agriculture & Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) strategically selected Fuamah, Totota, Gbarnga, and Kokoya districts. These workshops venue incorporated delegates from adjacent districts. Items highlighted in these workshops are as follow: ten code regulation, the New forest reform law, sustainable forest management practice, NTFP and its related economic benefits, the mode of effective conflict resolution amongst forest dwelling communities, land ownership, and community right law.

The various workshops were very much interactive and the issue of chain sawing and bush fallowing by farmers was being perceived as major factor to deforestation in Liberia. Also farmers discussed the issue of climate changes which is ill informing them about farming calendar.

BACKGROUND

The partnership established between the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) of Liberia and the National Forest Programme Facility (NFP) of FAO, in collaboration with the College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) as implementing partner to establish the Bong County Forest Forum.

3

The purpose of this initiative is to set up the forum in a participatory manner such as:

An effective multistakeholder dialogue of the marginalized forest dwelling communities that have vested interest in the forest, and those who are affected by the use of the forest in order to create awareness on sustainable forest management in Liberia.

Awareness on the equitable sharing of the benefits of forest resources amongst major stakeholders of Liberia’s forest.

Address effective and efficient conflict resolution during the management and utilization of the forest resources of Liberia.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective as per the Letter of Agreement (LoA) mandates the College of Agriculture & Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) to establish a fully function Bong County Forest Forum in a participatory manner and, considering major key stakeholders of the Twelve (12) districts, Thirteen (13) Chiefdom of Bong county. In order to achieve the general objective, the following specifics should be considered:

Conduct stakeholder identification at the chiefdom, district and County level in consultation with the major stakeholders of Bong County.

Create massive awareness on the National Forest programme Facility and the County Forest Forum of Bong County.

Set up a fully functioning Bong County Forest Forum with elected officers that will articulate the views and aspirations of the major stakeholder of Bong County Forest sector

4

NO ACTIVITIES RESULTS LESSON LEARNT1 Multistakehol

der Identification and Analysis

Stakeholders identified, documented, mobilized and organized for awareness raising

No FDA agent present in Bong County

No knowledge on forest instrument (2006 reform laws)

Little knowledge on NTFP and its economic value especially xylopia

2 Awareness raising in forest communities

The initiative for the first time brought together stakeholders and afforded them the opportunity to come in contact with current happening in the forest sector such as: ten code regulations, the National forestry reform law 2006, sustainable forest management practice, NTFP and its related economic benefits, the mode of effective conflict resolution amongst forest dwelling communities, land ownership, and community right law. The discussion at the districts level set the basis for developing the strategic plan for funding source of the Bong County Forest Forum.

The issue of land ownership and equitable benefit sharing of forest resource is a major problem if not address will serve as a major source of conflict in forest communities.

Increased knowledge on sustainable forest management strategies

Knowledge on forest instrument (2006 Reform Laws, 2009 Community Right Law & Forest Ten Code Regulation),

Increase knowledge on benefit sharing on climate change (REDD+)

3 The four (4) workshops conducted with the hundred participants in Fuamah, Totota, Gbarnga. And Kokoya Districts

At the end of these workshops participant the full meaning of the National Forest Programme Facility (NFPF), its objectives and mission in Liberia. Base on the awareness on stakeholder’s identification, each participant knew the group they belong in terms of forest sector discussion.

The willingness of stakeholders and the enthusiasm shown give a positive attitude toward the attainment of the Bong County Forest Forum. However, from all indication there is a need for capacity building amongst Stakeholders of the BCFF. These capacity building needs can be put into two categories such as; infrastructural development which include roads, office space, meet hall, clinics etc. The human resources capacity needs include projecting writing, Computer Science, Financial Management, Sustainable Forest Management, Procurement and Contract Management.

5

4 Drafting of Bong County Forest Forum Constitution

The interactions led to the drafting of a constitution that was debated in a participatory approach.

During this exercise, it was observed at an appreciable level to see stakeholders in the forest sector from rural communities debating national issues through a legislative procedure.

5 The constitution vetting,Adoption and setting up of the Bong County Forest Forum

Bong County Forest Forum Constitution was finally derived to serve as a legal instrument that governs the existence of the Bong County Forest Forum. Election was held in keeping with the constitution.An official turning over ceremony was also held in the presence of the local authorities.

The lesson indicates the bottom to top approach which served as the guiding principle in the achievement of drafting, vetting, adoption, election and the official turning over of the Bong county Forest Forum.While it is true that no survey has been conducted to establish the behavior change amongst stakeholders about forest related issues, the formation of the BCFF has sparked a debate about striking the balance knowledge wise between stakeholders directly interacting with the forest and those who have vested interest.

6 Gender Analysis

During the stakeholders identification and analysis it was observed that women and children are the most marginalized group in the forest sector in terms of decision making, benefit sharing and awareness opportunities. The initiation of the Nation Forest Programme Facility in the establishment of the Bong County Forest Forum has given hope to all sphere of life including women to actively participate in forest matter using BCFF as a medium. As the result of this endeavor, there have been specified position for woman at the level of District and County Forest Forum and the BCFF can proudly boast of 33% female representation.

Female are now seeing as an advocates for sustainable forest management because their strength for home management commercial related activities comes from the forest. The awareness on the economic values of NTFP has cultivated a new sense of commercial drift for women in forest proximity to harvest, process, package with added value and market for house hold incomes.

6

Comments

Gap analysis if this National Forest Progeamme Facility was not executed:

There would be a lack of knowledge on the importance of NTFP Marginalization of women and children alike could hinder the prospect of sustainable

forest management Communities in forest proximity could not be awared of forest reform regulations, right

and responsibilities, benefit sharing and the issue of land ownership. There could be the total absence of holistic national approach to sustainable forest

management in Liberia Conflict of interest could the order of the day amongst stakeholders in the forest sector

METHODOLOGY

The methodology employed during the establishment of the fully functioning Bong County Forest Forum was considered from various multidimensional approaches. These multidimensional approaches had various project phases. Each one of these phases had a unique methodology employed. In this light, the following methodologies were considered during the implementation of the project;

Questionnaire forms Personal and group interview Town hall meeting Site observation Hosting of workshops Radio talk shows Banner and fliers Routine Monitoring and Evaluation Electioneering

Detail simplified version of the methodologies employed at each project phase is highlighted in the chart below

NO PHASE METHODOLOGY1 Stakeholders Identification and Analysis Questionnaire forms, individuals & group

interview, Town hall meetings, site observation.

7

2 Awareness Raising Town hall meetings with local authorities, Delegates selection at clan and District levels to form part of the County forum Workshops

3 The selection of hundred (100) major stakeholders from the twelve districts to form the Bong County Forest Forum

Four (4) major workshops, Harmonized all districts drifted constitutions, Distributed the followings: FDA Ten Code Regulations, The 2006 Forestry Reform Law of Liberia and intensively discussed the documents distributed.

4 Drafting of the Constitution of the Bong County Forest Forum

Gather the districts delegates to Gbarnga, setting up Constitutional Drafting and review committee in a representative frame work, Reconciled and harmonized the four constitutions for possible vetting.

5 Vetting, Adoption, Election and turning over ceremony

Two days working sessions to correct necessary errors in the process of vetting, Adopt corrected version as final draft with committee members signatures, Nomination and election of County officers, installing of County officers into office and Turning over Ceremony of elected Bong county Forest Forum.

6 Monitoring & Evaluation Periodic visit to project site for monitoring and evaluation purposes, placement of monitoring and evaluation forms to stakeholders.

7 Developing concept for funding to BCFF Developed a holistic concept to attract source of funding for the Bong County Forest forum.

Human resources and logistics/ partnerships

The project was implemented by three graduating students of the University of Liberia reading Forestry and Agronomy under the guidance of an Assistant Professor as technical consultant. Base on the Letter of Agreement LoA, all logistics used in the implementation of the Bong County Forest Forum were rented. A mini Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Bong County Student Union and CAFSA for the catering services. Funding for the smooth

implementation of the Bong County Forest Forum came from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and the College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) in the total amount of Seventeen Thousand United States Dollars (US $ 17,000.00).

Attached Memorandum of Understanding signed between the College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association and the Bong County Student Union can be seen in the annex.

8

Conclusion

With the level of work done, CAFSA is very much optimistic about the series of activities undertaken; the lesion learnt, the involvement of local authorities, the women of Bong county participation, students as well as both people in forest proximity and vested groups, the development and implementation of the SAP, the recommendation advanced if adhere to, the established BCFF will achieved its Maximum aims and objectives in Sustainable Forest Management.

Recommendation

District Forest forum be established to enhance the full functioning of the BCFF While it is true that Bong County is not a major forested County, however, it serve as

transit for many forest products to Guinee, Ivory Coast and other parts of Liberia.Therefore, FDA should establish Regional office in Gbarnga, Bong County and work with the BCFF monitoring and Enforcement of established Regulations.

Major NFPF workshops be held in Bong County to increase awareness in the forest sector that will involve local authorities.

That the SAP be supported by lead institutions for the sustainability of BCFF That all forest initiatives be reflective of Gender inputs. That increase donor support be encouraged periodically.

9

APPENDNIX IStakeholders Identified and Analyzed

CommunityStakeholders Characteristics Main interest Interaction

With other Stakeholders

Local Knowledge on Sustainable Forest Management

Potential Impact on the BCFF

Palm Oil Producers

Major Source for livelihood, but ungrouped

Produce oil palm for local market

Collaborate with locals and private land owners

- Little knowledge on forest management

Pollute streams and creeks

Hunters/fisher man

Ungrouped persons who hunt & fish for protein source and livelihood

Acquire enough bush meat & fish for income

Work with local community members

- No knowledge on forest Regulations & policies

Agent of extinction for wildlife & aquatic species which could hinder the function of the BCFF

Farmers Producers of rice, vegetables & tubers crops for consumption

Seek for fertile land for crops production

Use local knowledge & collaborate with local agriculture extension officers

Primitive practice in farming

Deforestation & agents of Global warming

Palm wine producers

Ungrouped persons who tap palm trees for sale & consumption

Identify low land that has wine trees

Work with local & private land owners

- No knowledge on wine trees preservation and forest regulation

Deplete vegetation of baboon trees species in low land

Charcoal producers

Ungrouped persons who burn charcoal for livelihood

Supply fuel wood for house hole use

Partnership with farmers & rubber farm owners for wood

- Have no scientific knowledge on sustainable forest management

Risk to major policies that protects forest

Scrap dealers Grouped people who mine scrap for livelihood

Dig pits in the forest for scrap

Collaborate with LME & LOCAL authorities

- Agent of erosion in the forest

Rubber plantation owners

Group under rubber planters association

To acquire large acres of land for plantation establishment

Partnership with MOA, local authorities & private land owners

- Have scientific knowledge on modern methods of farming

Deplete natural forest vegetation

GovernmentLocal County Officers

Elected or appointed by

Protect forest regulation &

Interact with land ministries,

- Little awareness on the need for forest

Support in the BCFF

10

president policies, advocates for benefit sharing with locals on forest products

agencies & environmental groups

conservation, strongly believe that forest can be conversed for future generation

establishment & create avenue for sustainability

Forestry Development Authority (FDA) Regional Office

Represent FDA in Bong

Institute FDA regulations & policies

Interacted with land Ministries, agencies & stakeholders in the forest sector

- Provide scientific knowledge on sustainable forest management

Coordination with FDA regional office is vital for sustainability

Ministry of Agriculture local office

Represent MOA in Bong County

Regulates & coordinates agriculture related activities in Bong

Work with local farmers, CARI & local authority

- Has sufficient knowledge on forest management

Could serve as partner in sustaining BCFF

Environment Protection Agency (EPA)

Regulatory agency on Government environmental programs

Help to stabilize the ecosystem, minimize global warming & forest degeneration

Interact with all stakeholders

- Provide scientific knowledge on environmental issue & sustainable forest management

Could enhance the enforcement of forest laws & regulations

Academic InstitutionCuttington University

Training program

Impact academic knowledge to Liberian students

Trained people from diverse background

- Teach scientific farming Could serve as source for capacity building

Civil societyBong County student Union

Grouped & student base interest

Advocacy, academic & social initiatives

Work with local authorities, NGOs and developmental partners

- Have some knowledge on sustainable forest management

Could serve as strong partner in the formation and implementation of the BCFF

Liberia marketing Association Gbarnga branch

Grouped with vested interest in the forest sector

Purchase& sell forest products

Members interact with people in forest proximity

- No knowledge on forest management

Could serve as partners in adding value to forest products

Transport Union Grouped with vested interested in transporting forest products

Serve as transporting agency for forest products

Interact with LMA & local farmers

- No knowledge about forest management

Could be a sustainable partner to the BCFF

Community Radio Stations

Grouped with vested interest in dissemination

Serve as information medium for community


- Knowledge acquired from stakeholders on forest discussion

To increase adequate information amongst

11

information about the forest sector

dwellers stakeholders

Federation Liberian Youth Bong County Branch

Grouped for advocacy on thematic issues that affect young people

To be involved with decision on developmental issues as well as the forest sector


- Have knowledge on management and forest sustainability

Serve as valve for forest management, sustainability & equitable benefit sharing

Rural Women of Bong County

Grouped for women participation in national decision making

To keep marginalize communities informed about the forest sector & beyond


- Little knowledge on forest initiatives

Serve as major source for mitigating forest degradation

APPENDNIX IIOfficers of the Bong County Forest Forum

No

Name Sex institution District position Contact

1 Joseph S. Woah M FLY Chairman +231-6888212 Arthur P. Nah-Togbah M Zota Co-Chair +231-68523413 Albert S.B. Gbelee M Fuamah Secretary +231-64599614 Catherine N. Sumo F Jorquelleh Assistant

Secretary+231-77375127

5 Marcus C. Cooper M BONSU Financial Secretary

+231-6990766

6 Esther C. Wennah F Government Treasurer +231-66726037 Joeson B. Whisnant M Salala Chaplain +231-772663418 Samhon E. Jalarua M L.R.R.R.C Advisor +231-67715709 John R. Monroe M Fuamah Youth Rep. +231-6419277

10 Viola S. Geyealih F Gender Min. Women Rep. +231-645093211 Philip M. Mckay M Panta CBO Rep. +231-6763184

12

APPENDNIX IIIConference photos

Post photo of degelates during the launching of the Bong County Forest Forum

13

Representative of the Gender Coordination Bong County Highlights Women roles in sustainable forest managemen

Delegates vet constitution Project coordinator Gizzie address delegates

14

BCFF Chair Woah signed for DSA Facilitator Weah in Clossing remarks

CAFSA &Facilitator in studio Radio Gbarnga Professional Sevices render at vetting Program

APPENDNIX IVConstitution of BCFF

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS OF THE

BONG COUNTY FOREST FORUM

15

(BCFF)

VETTED ON THIS 30th DAY OF August, 2010 AND ADOPTED THIS 31th DAY OF August 2010 IN THE CITY OF GBANGA, BONG COUNTY, LIBERIA

PREAMBLE

We the undersigned citizens of Bong County,( Republic of Liberia) that reside in the Twelve Districts of Bong County have unanimously come together under the guidance and Blessing of God to Form a non-profitable, non- Political Organization in the interest of Bong County under the guide of the Constitution of Liberia which gives the right to assemble and organize ourselves for the promotion of national development, peace and harmony especially in sustainable management of our forest and forest resources, do hereby publish bye-Laws and constitution for the Bong County Forest Forum (BCFF).

16

ARTICLE 1: NAME & ACRONYM

Section 1: The name of the Organization herein after shall be referred to as BONG COUNTY FOREST FORUM.

Section 2: The acronym shall be BCFF.

Section 3: The Bong County forum shall be endorsed by the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA).

ARTICLE 2: MOTTO & EMBLEM

17

Section1. The motto of the Organization shall be “Sustaining the Forest today for a better Future”.

Section2.Emblem

The emblem shall be the map of Bong County constituting an elephant which represents wildlife, a palm tree which represents vegetation cover, a stream which represents aquatic resources, resting in twelve hands which represent the twelve Districts of Bong County.

ARTICLE 3: HEADQUARTER

The headquarter of the shall be located in Gbarnga City, Bong County

ARTICLE 4: AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim and objectives of the organization shall be and not limited to:

1. To create a genuine platform for dialogue, conflict resolution, group discussions, advocacy and protecting the forest and biodiversity of Bong County

2. To encourage participatory management of the forest and forest resources and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits accrued from the forest of Bong County

3. To provide information to the people on the management, utilization and benefits of the natural resources of Bong County

4. To encourage the citizens of Bong County to engage in reforestation.

ARTICLE 5: MEMBERSHIP

Section 1: The membership of this organization shall include all citizens of Bong County

Section 2: Residents in the territorial limit of Bong County are members Section 3: All Former and current government officials, District Commissioners and all Paramount, Clan, Elders and Town Chiefs will serve as honorary members of the organization and shall not have voting right and cannot be voted for.

ARTICLE 6: COMPOSITION OF OFFICERS

Section1: They shall comprise the following elected officers: Chairman, Co-chairman, General Secretary, Assistant secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Women Representative, Chaplain, Youth Representative, CBOs Representative, and Advisor.

Section2: Executive Committee shall comprise all elected officers at the county level and the 12 chairman of the 12 districts of Bong County Forest Forum.

ARTICLE7: QUALIFICATION FOR ELECTED OFFICERS

18

SECTION1: Chairman

I. He/ She shall be at least a high school graduate or above II. He/ She shall be a citizen of Bong CountyIII. He/ She shall have a good moral conduct/record with the county authority and the

country at largeIV. He/ she shall have at least one year experience in leadership.

Section2: Co-chairman


country at largeIV. He/ she shall have at least one year experience in leadership.

Section3: Secretary General


country at largeIV. He/ she shall have basic secretarial knowledge

Section4: Assistance Secretary

V. He/ She shall be at least a high school graduate or above VI. He/ She shall be a citizen of Bong CountyVII. He/ She shall have a good moral conduct/record with the county authority and the

country at largeVIII. He/ she shall have basic secretarial knowledge.

Section5: Financial Secretary


country at largeIV. He/ she shall have basic secretarial knowledgeV. He/ She shall have knowledge in accounting/book keeping.

Section6: Treasurer

19


country at largeIV. He/ she shall have basic understanding in keeping public fund.

Section7: Advisor

I. He/ she shall have good religious backgroundII. He/ She shall have an experience for at least two years or above in this disciplineIII. He/ She shall have a good moral conduct/record with the county authority and the

country at large.

Section8: Chaplain

I. He/ she shall have a good moral background

II. He/ she shall have good religious background

Section 9: Women Representative

I. She shall be a respectable woman in her communityII. she shall be of age 25 and above III. She shall have a good moral background

Section 10: Youth Representative

I. He/ She shall be of age 18-35II. He/ She shall have good moral standing

Section 11: CBOs Representative

I. He/ She shall be member of a community base OrganizationII. He/ She shall have good moral standing

ARTICLE 8: FUNCTIONS/ RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICERS

Section 1: Chairman

I. He/ She shall preside over all Bong County Forest Forum (BCFF) meetings that are in the interest of the people.

II. He/ She shall have the right to set up standing and adhoc committees with the advice and consent of the executive Committee. He /She shall suspend or dismiss any member of the Organization with the consent of the Executive Committee.

20

III. He/ She shall be one of the signatories to the account.IV. He/ She in consultation with the executive committee shall negotiate with any

Organization unbehalf of the Bong County Forest ForumV. He/ She shall approve all official communications.

Section 2: Co-chairman

I. He/ She shall preside over all meetings in the absent of the Chairman and conduct all other associated functions of the Chairman.

Section 3: General Secretary

I. He/ She shall take minutes of all Bong Forest Forum meetings and serve as the chief custodian of records.

II. He/ She shall sign all documents emanating from the Organization and perform all secretarial duties for the Organization including circulating citations, press releases, announcements etc.

III. He/ She shall perform all other duties assigned by the Chairman.

Section 4: Assistant Secretary

I. He/ She shall perform all duties ascribed to the Secretary General in his absence.

SECRTION 5: Financial Secretary

I. He/ She shall be the chief custodian of the financial recordsII. He/ She shall request of the Treasurer to disburse funds upon the approval of the

Chairman.III. He/ She shall aid the Treasurer in working with the Treasurer to prepared financial

reports.IV. He/ She shall provide quarterly financial report to the organization.V. He/ She shall be one of the signatories to the account.

Section 6: Treasurer

I. He/ She shall be the custodian of all physical cash of the organization.II. He/ She shall advise on the financial status of the Organization as often as possible.

III. He/ She shall be one of the signatories to the account.

Section 7: Advisor

I. He/ She shall advise on all matters of Bong County Forest Forum

21

Section 8: Women Representative

I. She shall represent the views of all women of the county and other women groups in the County.

II. She shall inform all women residing in the County on the day-to-day activities of the Organization.

Section 9: Youth Representative

I. He/ She shall represent the views of all youths of the County and other youth groups in the Districts.

II. He/ She shall inform all youths residing in the County on the day-to-day activities of the Organization.

Section 10: CBOs Representative

I. He/ She shall represent the views of all CBOs of the County and other CBOs in the Districts.

II. He/ She shall inform all CBOs operating in the Bong County on the day-to-day activities of the Origination.

Section 11: Chaplain

I. He/she shall conduct all prayers before and after meetings.II. He/ She is responsible to carry out prayers of all gathering necessary to the growth of

the organization.

ARTICLE 11: TENURE OF OFFICE

Section 1: all elected officers shall serve for the period of two (2) year term and can be re-elected if necessary.

Section 2: A Chairman can not be elected for more than two (2) terms.

ARTICLE 12: FINANCE

Section 1: All fund generated through revenue or local social benefit from the forest sector and donors shall be deposited in a reputable Bank in Bong County Republic of Liberia.

Section 2: The Bank Book shall be kept by the Treasurer and shall be presented at all meetings upon request.

Section 3: Withdrawal of any fund shall meet the consent of the executive committee before such fund is withdrawn or disbursed.

22

ARTICLE 13: BY-LAWS

Section1: General Meeting

The general meeting of the Organization shall include all elected officials of the Bong County Forest Forum and shall meet bi-annually.

Section 2: General Assembly shall be held annually at the Forum’s Headquarter, the last week in November of each year at which time the Executive Committee shall report on progress of the Organization.

Section 3: Notice and agenda of the meeting shall be sent at least one Month to the meeting date to all Districts.

Section 4: a quorum to the General Assembly shall constitute 2/3 majority of the delegates to the general assembly

ARTICLE 14: STANDING COMMITTEE

Section 1: Advisory Committee

Advisory Committee shall be responsible to advise all officers and members on their daily function for the betterment of the Organization. It shall be headed by the elected advisor.

Section 2: Social Committee

It shall be responsible for the social initiatives of the Bong County Forest Forum

and shall be headed by a distinguish personality

Section 3: Ways & Means

It shall be responsible to formulate and execute programs that will generate funding to the Organization.

The ways & means committee chairman shall be headed by a chairman appointed by the chairman of Bong County Forest Forum with the consent of the executive committee.

ARTICLE15: IMPEACHMENT

Section 1: All elected officers are subject to impeachment from office base misrepresentation, misapplication of the Organization funds, constitutional violation and disrespect to customary and the laws of Liberia.

23

Section 2: All impeachment proceedings are subject to investigation, warning, suspension, restitution.

ARTICLE16: AMENDMENT

Section 1: Any portion or provision of this constitution shall be amended base upon two third (2/3) majority votes of all delegates at the General Assembly

Section 2: Any portion or provision to be amended shall immediately cease to be binding and the new provision shall become law.

Section 3: the proposal for amendment shall be submitted in writing to the executive committee not least 3 Months prior to the General Assembly.

ARTICLE 17: Anything to the contrary notwithstanding.

GIVEN UNDER OUR HANDS THIS 31ST DAY OF AUGUST, AD 2010 IN THE CITY OF GBARNGA, REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA

24

APPENDNIX VAgenda & sample of a Minute taken in Faumah of awareness raising workshops

1. Introductiona. Welcome Remarkb. Self intrductionc. Presentation of the National Foerst Program Facility

2. Legal Framework of Forest Management in Liberiaa. Background of the Liberia Forest legal Frameworkb. The forestry reform Law of 2006

i. Chapter-2- “Ownership”ii. Chapter-10- “ Community Rights”iii. Chapter-11- “ Right of Land Owners”

25

iv. Chapter-16- “Shrinking Forest Resources Base”c. 2009 Community Right Laws of Liberis

i. Chapter 1ii. Chapter 3iii. Chapter 4iv. Chapter 5

3. Discussion on Issues relative to Liberia Forestry Legal Framework4. AOBLUNCH BRAKE! LUNCH BRAKE! LUNCH BRAKE!5. Formation of the District Forum

i. Nomationii. Election of Focus Presonsiii. Introduction of Officers

6. Social –Economic interview7. Closing Statement

a. District Authorityb. Focus personc. CAFSA

On March 26, 2010, the College of Agriculture & Forestry Student Association (CAFSA) conducted a one day workshop in Fuamah District, Bong County. This workshop was intended to create awareness on broader participation of stakeholders on the National Forest Program Facility mission in Liberia and Sustainable Forest Management. The workshop was attended by twenty-five delegates including the Local Authorities of the District. Hon. James Carter (District Commissioner) commended CAFSA for reaching to forest dwelling communities to discuss forest related issues such as forest policies, FDA Ten Code Regulation and the community right law of 2009.

Burning issues discussed

Insufficient awareness of stakeholders participation in forestry matters

Chain sawing and benefit sharing Land disputes

26

Climate change concerns to farmers

Results from the delebrations Technical team was set up and headed by fuamah district focus person Mr.

John Monroe to drift a constitution at district level Two delegates were elected to represent Fuamah District at formation

workshops of the BCFF in Gbarnga city Request was made by delegates for the formation of the district forest

forum The forum was also used to settle dispute between the Paramunt Chief and

the District Commissioner then

APPENDNIX VI

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Bong County Student Union & the College Of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) constitutes an agreement between College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association and Bong County Student Union to work together in an effort to:

Facilitate the ideal of Sustainable Forest Management frame work in Bong County Facilitate stakeholder about the importance of the National Forest Programme Facility

and reform Regulations in the forest sector of Liberia

Part I: Bong County Student Union Responsibilities

27

To participate in the networks of stakeholders identification and awareness To provide catering services to all organized workshop venues To ensure compliance with the learning component of the project through regular

stakeholders monitoring

Part II: College of Agriculture and Forestry Student Association Responsibilities

To meet the cost of catering services for every organized workshop To provide stationery needs and cover the cost of communication To facility Bong County Student Union introduction to local authorities and communities

Part III: Agreement Modification and Termination

Either party may terminates this agreement by providing thirty (30) days written notice to the other party but may be amended at any time by mutual understanding of the parties.

Part IV: confidentiality

All information gained from the work carried out on the partnership’s behalf will remain the property of the partnership until the partnership is formally disbanded.

Part V: Authorization

The signing of the MOU is not formal undertaking, it implies that the signatories will strive to reach, to the best of their ability, the objectives stated in the MOU. The parties shall act as independent contractor in the MOU implementation. Nothing contained herein is intended to or shall create the relationship of employer- employee, joint venture, or principal agencies between the parties nor does the authority, expressed or implied to create financial obligations on behalf of the other party, to create commitment other than as contained herein, or to take any positions on behalf of the other party without written consent. All funds will be exchange between parties in three (3) installments.

Part VI: Declaration

We under the terms of this memorandum agreed to the best of our ability to abide by them:

28

For the purpose of the MOU, the two parties will be represented by the following:

College of Agriculture & Forestry Student Association ---------------- Mr. Kolee F. Gizzie

Bong County Student Union------------------------------------------------- Mr. Victor Flomo

Signatures:

Mr. Kolee F. Gizzie Date: April 15, 2010

President (CAFSA)

Mr. Victor Flomo Date: April 15, 2010

President (BONSU)

APPENDNIX VII

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN FOR THE SUSTAINABILITY OF BONG COUNTY FOREST FORUM

Introduction

Deforestation remains a major environmental harzard with abverse impact on ecosystem and livelihood of living in Liberia and the world at large. It has contributed to increasing poverty. The global concern about the menace of deforestation claimed the attention of the NationalForest Programme Facility and the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to establish a National driven platform that will involve all major stakeholders in the forest sector and beyond in sustainable forest management.

Therefore, in February of 2010, the National Forest programme facility of the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization in colaboration with the Forestry Development Authority signed a Letter of Agreement with the College of Agriculture & forestry Student Association

29

with a mendate to establish the Bong County Forest Forum. In fortherance of its mendate, CAFSA was to conduct stakeholders Identification and analysis, awareness raising amongst forest dwelling copmmunities and vesred interested groups considering the marginalized communities. CAFSA being congnizent of its mandate has instituted measures to effectively build linkages and synegis for full function of the Bong county forest Forum in a participatory manner. It is in said framework that the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) is woven to achieve and improve sustainable forest management.

Overall Vision

Considering the impact of deforestation in Liberia and conscious that sustainable economic growth, social development, poverty reduction strategic and sustainable forest management are current national priorities. Hance, these prioprities are essentia to meeting sustainable objective of the Bong county Forest Forum (BCFF). Therefore, it is envisage that two years after the implementation of the Strategic Action Plan (SAP), the trend and extend of deforestation, the pressure on wildlife and livelihood for forest dwelling communities will significantly revrsed and increased knowledge on non- timber forest product is enhanced.

Strategic General Objective

The Strategic General Objective for developing the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) is to develop a platform for the sustainability of the BCFF and idnetify sources of funding for supporting the platform.

Specific Objectives

To identify the root causes and impacts of unsustainable agriculture practices and harvest of forest products

To incoperates enveronmental friendly practices for improving the sustainability of agriculture thus controlling deforestation

To develop socio-cultural incentive and Strategic for reversing and mitigating deforestation on a long term basis.

METHODOLOGY

The methodology that wil be employed to achieve the full implementation the Strategic A tion Plan for the sustainability Bong County Forest Forum under consideration are as follow:

30

Relationship mapping Priority need ranking of forest dwelling communities Develop and implementation of micro- project in the forest sector, creation of

community wood lot, animal rearing, harvesting and adding value to NTFP, acqua culture and crop diversification

Coordination amongst stakehohders in the forest sector

Prioritized objectives

Activities output Time line Extimated Cost

Lead Institutions

Establishment of District forest forum

Identify stakeholders, analyze & conduct need assesment

Stakeholders identified & documented

2 Months

US $ 2,750.00

FDA,FAO,NFP Facility

Conduct workshop for awareness raising on forest instruments

Increasing stakeholders konwledge

3 months US $ 5,000.00


Constitution preperation for 12 Districts and conduct election for district officers

12 Districts Forum established in Bong County

2 Months

US $ 7,000.00


Develop Strategic Action Plan for the 12 District For a of Bong

SAP developed & source of funding identified to sustain the 12 district Fora

1 Month US $ 250.00 FDA,FAO,NFP Facility

Building the Capacity of BCFF

Train 12 members of the forum in computer science, project writing, scalling, forest inventory and financial management reporting

Forum members train to conduct TOT training

6 Months

US $ 5,000.00

FDA,FAO,NFP Facility,USAID , DEN-L,FTI & County Dev. Fund

Economic incentives, extablish 4 pilot project to raise ducks

Reduce pressure on bush meat trade and acquatic life & generates income

6 months

US $ 15,000.00

FDA,FAO,NFP Facility,USAID

Provision of micro-loan for women in forest dwelling communities in Bong to establish cooperatives in the purchasing of NTFP

Cooperatives established women impower to add value chain to NTFP

6 Months

US $ 25,000.00

FDA,FAO,NFP Facility,USAID

Grand Total US $60,000.00

31

Recommendation

In order to have fully functioning BCFF and the implementation of the Strategic Action plan (SAP), the following recommendation should be considered:

The BCFF should be freed of all ploitical manipulation That the County authorities allot the minimum of 5% of the county development fund to

the forum That FDA< FAO & NFP Facility provide the projected cost for the smooh implementation

of the SAP That implementating organizations through the focus person service as consultant on

every implementation of the SAP That FDA marketing agent be assigned in Bong County to seal valve of NTFP sale

Conclusion

In Conclusion, CAFSA remains optimistic that the strategic objectives analyzed and the recommendation advanced, if implemented will serve as a supporting pillar to sustained the Bong County Forest Forum and the sustainable forest management framework of Liberia.

32

web viewfinal report . establishment of the bong county forest forum. sponso. r. ed. by fao in...

Documents