The Minister of Environment and Climate Change Jiwoh Abdulai has warned that Sierra Leone’s forests are under serious threat from accelerating deforestation.

Presenting fresh satellite data at the government’s weekly press conference on August 12, Abdulai said the destruction of forest cover is jeopardizing the country’s biodiversity, water security, and climate resilience.

“Where the National Protected Area Authority manages forests, losses are minimal. Where there is no oversight, we see massive destruction,” he said.

He cited GOLA Forest, as a model for successful forest protection. Recently recognized by the World Heritage Centre for its global environmental value, GOLA Forest, lost only 16 hectares of forest in 2024—compared to 1,500 hectares in nearby unprotected areas. Another bright example is Tiwai Island, which recorded zero deforestation over the same period.

“These cases show what is possible when government, conservation partners, and communities work together,” Abdulai said. “Unfortunately, across the country, the story is very different. Illegal logging, charcoal burning, and land grabbing are stripping away our last green shields.”

To tackle the crisis, the minister announced a five million trees national reforestation plan. The initiative will prioritize degraded catchment areas, buffer zones around national parks, and community-managed forests, using climate-resilient species and strict monitoring to ensure survival rates remain high.

“This is not just about planting trees—it’s about restoring ecosystems, protecting water sources, and creating livelihoods,” he explained. “If every Sierra Leonean plants and cares for just one tree, we will surpass our target.”

The program is expected to create thousands of short-term jobs in rural areas for seedling production, planting, and forest management. Abdulai urged chiefs, schools, youth groups, and local councils to take ownership of the campaign.