Senegal Community Launches Ambitious Reforestation Project to Combat Climate Change
A grassroots initiative in Senegal is taking root, aiming to reverse the effects of deforestation and soil degradation through a large-scale tree-planting campaign. The project, spearheaded by the newly formed Association Quartier Vert, launched this past Saturday in Thiamène Cayor, Louga department, with a symbolic tree planting at the local health station.
The association’s ambitious plan calls for planting 300 trees in each district of the town, as well as throughout various public spaces, ultimately aiming to plant several thousand trees to revitalize the Ndiambour region. This initiative comes at a critical time, as Senegal faces increasing environmental challenges.
Addressing a Growing Environmental Crisis
According to the association’s president, the region is experiencing significant environmental strain. “We have found that the area is faced with deforestation and soil degradation due to the effects of climate change,” he stated during the launch event, which was attended by local customary, religious, and administrative leaders. “This is what motivated us, as young people in the locality, to embark on these citizen activities for the well-being of the community.”
The Association Quartier Vert intends to build a sustainable movement through a variety of ongoing initiatives. These include regular cleaning days, large-scale reforestation campaigns, the creation of new green spaces, and public awareness-raising actions focused on responsible waste management.
Community Engagement is Key
A core component of the project is mobilizing local residents to participate in environmental stewardship. The association plans to host forums and conferences on environmental issues to strengthen community engagement. “We are going to plant two trees in front of each house, and call the inhabitants to water them regularly,” the association president added, appealing to the population to “act together for common well-being.”
The importance of long-term maintenance was also emphasized by a representative from the Koki waters and forest brigade. “The tree is a natural phenomenon that promotes rain,” he argued, “And in this context of rarity of precipitation, we must multiply this kind of initiatives.” He further noted the support of national leadership, referencing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s call for Senegalese citizens to plant 2 million trees on the National Day of the Tree, scheduled for August 3 in Rao, Saint-Louis department.
This local effort aligns with a broader national strategy to combat the impacts of climate change and promote environmental sustainability. The success of the Association Quartier Vert’s initiative will depend on continued community involvement and a commitment to nurturing the newly planted trees, ensuring a greener future for Thiamène Cayor and the surrounding region.
