LocationsEmpowering Communities for Sustainable Resource Management
September 5, 2024
Group photo of CREMA executives and the fire volunteer squad at the inauguration of the Atiwa West CREMA
The FOREST Okyeman project has a key outcome to protect natural resources while assisting communities in revitalizing existing resource management groups and establishing landscape-level governance structures. A prime model for this effort is the Community Resource Management Area (CREMA), regulated by the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission. CREMA unites community members into a governance structure for co-managing natural resources. It focuses on raising awareness, addressing violations, enhancing accountability, and building capacity in agroforestry practices, thereby empowering local communities to ensure that the benefits from natural resources are distributed equitably.
Funded by the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS), the FOREST Okyeman project—led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana in collaboration with A Rocha Ghana, the Okyeman Environment Foundation, and the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission—is supporting the establishment of the Atiwa West Community Resource Management Area (CREMA) for eight communities bordering the Atewa Forest Reserve. These communities—Bomaa, Awenare, Apampatia, Abisem, Banso, Pameng, Akropong, and Larbikrom—have made significant progress in forming a governance structure for the management of their community resources.
The FOREST Okyeman project is an initiative that demonstrates the significant impact we can collectively have in protecting our natural resources. The Atiwa West CREMA stands as a testament to community empowerment, serving as a beacon of hope for us all.” Noted Ayeribi Frimpong Forest Specialist.
Ayeribi Frimpong, Forest Specialist, delivering his remarks at the inauguaration of the Atiwa West CREMA and Fire Volunteer Squad.
The Atiwa West CREMA Executive Committee (CEC) is a nine-member body that serves as the decision-making and operational authority of the CREMA, with its powers defined in the Atiwa West CREMA Constitution. Supporting the CEC are the Community Resource Management Committees (CRMC), consisting of seven representatives from each of the eight communities, for a total of 56 members. These representatives include farmers, local chiefs, the Queenmother, government officials, youth, women, and faith-based organizations. Additionally, the establishment of the CREMA requires the formation of a fire volunteer squad to safeguard resources from wildfires. The inauguration of the CEC, CRMC, and the fire volunteer squad marks the formal commencement of their roles and responsibilities within the governance framework.
The inauguration ceremony of the CEC and the fire volunteer squad is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders to sustainable resource management and community empowerment. This event not only acknowledges the hard work and dedication of all involved but also sets the stage for the continued success and sustainability of the FOREST Okyeman project. By reinforcing the shared goal of enhancing land and tree tenure policies, the project aims to achieve greater accountability and environmental stewardship.
“The Okyeman Environment Foundation (OEF) is dedicated to driving progress under the FOREST Okyeman project to protect Atewa West's natural resources for future generations. The foundation will continue to work closely with the communities, sharing knowledge and resources for a resilient and sustainable future.” Stated Kofi Gyimah Amoako-Gyimah, Executive Secretary OEF.
Kofi Gyimah Amoako_Gyimah , Executive Secretary Okyeman Environment Foundation delivering his remarks at the inauguaration of the Atiwa West CREMA and Fire Volunteer Squad.
The FOREST Okyeman project represents a significant step forward in use of the UN Human Security Approach to sustainable management of natural resources in the Okyeman. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders and empowering local communities, the project aims to create a model of resource management that can be replicated in other regions.
A picture of the Fire Volunteer Squad.
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