Global transformation of forests for people and climate: Focus on West Africa
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West Africa is home to over 72 million hectares of forests and woodlands that support biodiversity and sustain millions of people’s livelihoods. Yet, the region faces alarming deforestation, losing approximately 870 000 hectares annually due to complex and overlapping pressures from small-scale farming, fuelwood demand, logging, wildfires and more.This publication offers an in-depth look at the challenges threatening West Africa’s forests, including fragmented governance, data gaps, and socio-economic drivers. It highlights the importance of these ecosystems as biodiversity hotspots, carbon sinks, and sources of food, energy, and income. The analysis draws on recent data and regional insights to reveal why coordinated, inclusive forest management is essential for sustainable development.Addressing these challenges will require strong legal frameworks, improved institutional cooperation, and gender-sensitive approaches that empower women as key forest stewards. This work presents practical recommendations and partnership models aimed at strengthening governance, enhancing data reliability, and fostering community engagement. It is an indispensable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and anyone committed to preserving West Africa’s forests for future generations.