Bayelsa Communities Boost Climate Resilience with NCF's Smart Agriculture and Forest Restoration Initiative

Communities in Nigeria's Bayelsa State are facing the harsh realities of climate change, including unpredictable rainfall and declining soil productivity. In response, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), with support from the Ford Foundation, has launched a project to bolster resilience in the support zone of the proposed Edumanon National Park. The initiative targets the Idema, Obeduma, and Eboh communities.

The project employs a comprehensive approach, combining Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) with women-led economic empowerment, youth involvement in forest restoration, and enhanced community governance. This holistic model aims to foster climate action at the grassroots level.

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The project is designed to build a strong foundation for community-led climate resilience by combining livelihood support, environmental conservation, and local governance. Through continuous engagement and capacity building, we hope to encourage long-term sustainable practices across the communities.

"The project is designed to build a strong foundation for community-led climate resilience by combining livelihood support, environmental conservation, and local governance," said Mr. Shittu Usman, the project officer. "Through continuous engagement and capacity building, we hope to encourage long-term sustainable practices across the communities."

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This programme is helping to deepen awareness within our communities about the importance of conservation and sustainable resource management. The engagement with local leaders is also encouraging stronger community participation in protecting our forests and mangroves for future generations.

A key component involves building capacity in Climate-Smart Agriculture. A total of 100 community members received training on sustainable land preparation, crop diversification, soil fertility management, and climate-resilient farming techniques. To support practical application, 1,000 improved plantain suckers were distributed, and demonstration farms were established as local learning hubs.

Recognizing women's vital role in food systems, 40 women were trained in vegetable gardening, focusing on high-yield methods, organic manure, and water management. Participants received seeds for okra, tomato, and pumpkin, aiming to improve household nutrition, food security, and create income opportunities. "The vegetable gardening training has given me new knowledge and skills that I believe will help improve food production for my family and create additional income opportunities," shared Mrs. Rose Ebufu.

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The vegetable gardening training has given me new knowledge and skills that I believe will help improve food production for my family and create additional income opportunities. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and participate.