NGOs - SDGs
Oliver Griffith: Protecting Africa’s forests through REDD+
Oliver Griffith, is a former US Diplomat and World Bank Group (Image: Oliver Griffith)
Deforestation and forest degradation are the second leading causes of global warming, responsible for about 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The recent COP-26 recognized this with a pledge to stop deforestation by 2030. But how will we get there?
Can we in the North tell developing countries not to cut down their forests because we need them as carbon sinks to slow down climate change? Not without some form of compensation. They’re desperate for economic growth and have a right to use their resources.
European countries cut down their trees centuries ago for the same reasons. And the US now emits over 15 metric tons of CO2 per capita, almost eight times as much as the average sub-Saharan country. The same people who lecture developing countries are the ones who drive SUVs. And consume the soy-fed beef and palm oil that contribute to deforestation. We need a reality check.
Why not just buy all those rainforests and turn them into national parks to preserve them as the world’s lungs? Not a bad idea, and it’s worked in some places, but what if there are people living in the forests and contributing to their demise? Population pressure, subsistence farming, and fuel wood and charcoal making account for about half of tropical forest loss, while commercial agriculture, logging, and more recently climate disasters, account for the rest. So, the obvious solution is to lessen these activities.
Since at least half of deforestation is linked to rich world consumption patterns, an important step is to change these. There are encouraging signs, but the growing middle classes in developing countries want to live well too. And how can we tell a family just escaping poverty that they shouldn’t have modern conveniences or eat beef? Changing habits and the economic models that sustain them won’t be easy.
Tackling deforestation on the ground is an indispensable adjunct. It should involve giving indigenous inhabitants title to the lands they have sustainably used for centuries. Creating family planning programs to ease demographic pressure, and finding sustainable livelihoods for forest dwellers. And governments must cut subsidies for unsustainable forest activities and improve environmental laws and forest management.
Since the primary drivers of deforestation are economic, we must find economic solutions, making the trees more valuable standing than cutting down. Among the most effective and far reaching is the United Nations’ REDD+ program. It Reduces Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation by selling carbon credits based on verified emission reductions in forests. The proceeds are used to help the forest communities find more sustainable livelihoods and improve their standards of living. By harnessing market-based economic mechanisms for an economic problem. It may have the greatest chance of success among the many initiatives with the same goals.
A crucial component is gaining influence in the decision-making process for land use, which is challenging in the countries where most tropical forests are located. It requires international encouragement, such as through COP-26, and local policy reforms. At the same time we need quick action on the ground where deforestation is happening.
The results so far are encouraging. Studies of REDD+ projects worldwide have found that they reduce deforestation while improving the lives of forest dwellers. Moreover, REDD+ has increased the awareness and commitment of governments and the private sector on the importance of forest preservation. Pinpointed commercial agriculture as a driver of deforestation, and provided a platform to secure land rights. It’s not a magic bullet and must be combined with activism against polluting companies in the global North, but it’s a good start.
Oliver Griffith recently visited two REDD+ projects run by Wildlife Works, a private conservation company. The Kasigau Corridor Project in Kenya, which was the first REDD+ project to be verified by the two main REDD+ standards (VCS, CCBA) in 2011, and the ERA-Congo Project in Mai Ndombe province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). What impressed me was not just the slowing down of deforestation. But the positive socio-economic effects of the substantial funds flowing into these poor regions from the sale of carbon credits.
In the Kasigau Corridor area, wherever you turn there are community projects, from schools and clinics to handicrafts cooperatives, water tanks, pumps, and farming cooperatives. In fact, Wildlife Works facilities are far more visible than those of the local or national governments.
In Mai Ndombe the impact is even more dramatic. The 180,000 residents in the isolated forest communities in the 300,000-hectare project area lack just about everything – health care, education, electricity, running water, and adequate nutrition. Once again, the community-based Wildlife Works projects are popping up everywhere, and are already reaching over 50,000 people, taking the place of underfunded state services. That this is happening in the DRC, and with relatively efficient support from the government, is even more remarkable.
Time will tell if such projects are sustainable in the long term. It would be better if developing governments took on these tasks themselves, and rich countries finally fulfilled their promises to drastically cut emissions. However, this is wishful thinking so, given the urgency of deforestation, we need viable alternatives such as REDD+.
Article By: Oliver Griffith, a former US Diplomat and World Bank Group (IFC) official with 35 years in foreign affairs. Much of it devoted to Africa and economic affairs.
Laila Bastati, Chief Commercial Officer, APO Group (Source: APO Group)
As we observe International Women’s Month with the theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ it is essential to contemplate the importance of diversity within organizations and its crucial role in shaping a more equitable and inclusive society. This year’s theme calls on us to inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, not just for the benefit of women but for the advancement of the African continent.
Women across Africa face unique challenges, from cultural barriers to limited access to resources and opportunities. However, despite these difficulties, they continue to defy the odds, breaking barriers, and making significant contributions to their communities and economies. As we recognise such achievements, it’s crucial to underline the importance of promoting the role of women in driving more diverse, competitive, and future-looking workspaces.
“At APO Group, we’re proud of our extremely diverse team of professionals from all over the world. The diversity we see in age, gender, locations, backgrounds, and experience all combines to forge a formidable team that brings the best of APO Group to our clients. In an industry that has achieved, in recent years, a good gender balance, we strive to lead by example, leveraging our platform to advocate for broader gender equality and diversity initiatives, aiming to inspire other organizations to follow suit.” said Laila Bastati, Chief Commercial Officer, APO Group.
“For us, such diversity reflects a leadership that values and promotes the unique perspectives and contributions of women, at all levels of the organisation. It also clearly demonstrates that we’re an organisation that values inclusivity and equality, and that the different voices and ideas of our team reflect a unique understanding of the African markets in which we operate. The result of being firm proponents of an environment in which all contributions are valued, and where collaboration is part of our culture, is that innovation and creativity come naturally.” Laila Bastati Added.
The importance of embracing diversity
Embracing diversity, especially gender diversity, is essential for any organization aiming to create a balanced, fair, and dynamic working environment.There’s no doubt that for any type of organisation, embracing diverse perspectives and expertise, highlighting achievements and success stories, and advocating for equal opportunities and recognition, are all aspects that contribute to a more equitable and inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed based on merit and talent.
Successful companies intentionally cultivate diverse leadership at all levels. While this may initially appear coincidental, the process of building diverse teams is a deliberate and strategic endeavour that underscores a commitment to creating spaces where women’s leadership and insights drive innovation and strategic decision-making.
What makes a diverse team?
Firstly, promoting diversity in leadership is crucial. Actively recruiting, developing, and promoting the right female candidates into leadership positions ensures women’s perspectives are represented at the decision-making table. Secondly, reviewing and revising policies to ensure they are gender-neutral and promote equal opportunities for all employees is essential. Thirdly, providing equal access to training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities, with a particular focus on supporting women, is key.
Additionally, creating a supportive work environment and nurturing a culture of inclusion where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported is paramount. Regularly monitoring and evaluating diversity metrics to track progress and identify areas for improvement is also important. Finally, embracing a culture of work meritocracy where individuals are recognised and rewarded based on their skills, contributions, and performance, rather than on gender, race, or other characteristics, completes the foundation of a diverse team.
In the context of this special period of the year, I urge organizations across Africa to recognize and harness the unique strengths women bring to the table, not only to promote gender equity, but to ensure these organizations will continue to have a place in the workspace of tomorrow.
Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan, Group Chief Executive Officer, McEnies Global Communications has joined other women of note to commemorate the annual International Women’s Day (IWD) marked every calendar year of March 8 across the globe.
The owner of the upwardly wholly company with vast expertise and competency in integrated marketing communications services called on women folk to break the bias against them and find their path even as she advised them to push for merit driven results in every areas of their endeavors.
Omolara, a woman with records of excellence in providing top-notch solutions to big and medium firms across all sectors and industry shared her perspectives in commemorating the 2024 International Women’s Day which came with the theme, ‘Inspire inclusion’.
In a statement credited to her on Friday and made available to newsmen, Dr Omolaraeni said:
“Every year on 8 March, International Women’s Day is celebrated to commemorate and honour women’s accomplishments, raise awareness about gender disparities and discrimination, as well as promote global support for women, as a woman I am truly proud to be part of this auspicious day.
“It is however impressive to know that 2024 International Women’s Day comes in line with the global movement for women’s rights, equality, justice, poverty, sexual harassment, violence and discrimination against women and I must commend stakeholders for the well thought out theme for the year which is, ‘Inspire inclusion.’
“It is my prayer and hope that this will be made actionable through the introduction of right legal frameworks, polices and robust legislation from the states and National Assemblies so that women will have their place of pride in the scheme of things.
“There are records to show that women have suffered many gender-related challenges therefore more efforts need to be put in place to break the jinx of gender inequality, intergenerational cycle of poverty, particularly for disadvantaged women and girl children etc. Women must also come together in one voice and change the narrative so that the society can be better for it and the time is now. Omolara said.
Speaking further the marketing communication consultant stated, “I jointly celebrate every strong woman out there including myself! You are stronger than you ever imagine, never renege to ‘Inspire inclusion’ in every sphere of life, don’t give room for limitations, we are great and we shall fulfill our purpose and destiny, we are above discrimination and limitations.
“Let’s “Inspire Inclusion” by fostering understanding and appreciation for women’s inclusion. Together, we can create a world where women feel a deep sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.
“Let’s inspire others to recognize and value the importance of inclusion for women, as this paves the way for a brighter future for all. Embrace the spirit of unity and empowerment, and let’s work collectively to build a more inclusive world for women.
“Let’s aspire to inspire, crave inclusion, and be included.
“Happy International Women’s Day!” The statement concluded.
Nkuzi Stem Initiative
In a world driven by technological advancements, ensuring inclusivity and diverse perspectives within STEM fields is no longer optional, it’s essential. Recognizing this critical need, the Grundfos Foundation and Rector Cares Foundation joined forces to launch the groundbreaking “Nkuzi Stem” initiative, meaning “Learn” in Igbo.
More than just a program, Nkuzi Stem serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring young minds, particularly girls aged 15-20 from diverse backgrounds. This innovative education initiative aims to bridge the gap in tech diversity, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Through Nkuzi Stem, students embark on a fascinating journey into the world of STEM, equipped with the support, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive.
A core objective of Nkuzi Stem is to dismantle the notion that gender limits potential in technology and computer science. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on experiences, the initiative empowers young talents, regardless of gender, to excel in the STEM field. By providing coding boot camps, scholarships, and networking opportunities, Nkuzi Stem is poised to revolutionise STEM education in Nigeria.
Last year’s launch at the Federal Government Girls College, Lejja Enugu, marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the students. As pioneers of Nkuzi Stem, they gain access to a wealth of programs and resources designed to nurture their passion for STEM.
At the recent International Day of Women and Girls in Science event, Onyedikachi Erete, founder of Rector Cares Foundation, passionately emphasised the importance of diversity in technology. “Diversity isn’t just about fairness, it’s about unlocking the full potential of the tech industry. Nkuzi Stem recognises this, nurturing a generation of innovators who will bring fresh perspectives and drive progress for all,” he stated. “Seeing beyond limitations, Nkuzi Stem dismantles the walls of exclusion in tech. Our goal is to empower diverse talents and cultivate a tech landscape that truly reflects the richness of our communities.”
Nkuzi Stem aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 5, aiming for gender equality. The initiative serves as a model for similar programs worldwide, fostering a global movement for girls in STEM.
Nkuzi Stem transcends simply offering opportunities; it reshapes the future of the tech industry by fostering diversity and inclusion. By unlocking the potential of a new generation of female innovators, the initiative promises to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the world of technology, ultimately benefiting society at large.
As we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let us applaud initiatives like Nkuzi Stem that are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in STEM. Together, let us continue to support and empower girls and women in their journey towards excellence in science and technology.
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