By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Deforestation is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Sierra Leone. With vast swathes of our nation’s lush tropical forests being depleted for agricultural, industrial, and urban development, the impact on the environment, economy, and livelihoods is becoming increasingly alarming.
Sierra Leone’s forests, which once covered about 60% of the land, are shrinking at an unprecedented rate. According to environmental studies, the country loses approximately 50,000 hectares of forest annually due to activities like logging, slash-and-burn agriculture, and mining. This deforestation has far-reaching effects that threaten both biodiversity and the well-being of communities.
The loss of forests directly contributes to climate change through the release of stored carbon dioxide, a key greenhouse gas. Deforestation also disrupts rainfall patterns, leading to prolonged dry seasons and unpredictable weather conditions. This is particularly concerning for Sierra Leone, where agriculture is predominantly rain-fed and sustains the majority of the population.
Moreover, deforestation increases the risk of soil erosion and landslides, especially in hilly areas like Freetown, where unregulated construction has led to the clearing of protective vegetation. In recent years, Sierra Leone has witnessed devastating floods, many of which have been linked to the loss of forest cover.
Sierra Leone is home to diverse wildlife, including many species found nowhere else in the world. The destruction of habitats caused by deforestation threatens the survival of these species, pushing many towards extinction. Forest ecosystems such as the Gola Rainforest National Park and Outamba-Kilimi National Park, which are critical biodiversity hotspots, are under increasing pressure from illegal activities.
For rural communities, forests are a lifeline. They provide firewood, medicinal plants, and materials for construction. However, as forests disappear, people—especially women and children—must travel longer distances to collect these resources, which reduces time for education and income-generating activities.
Deforestation also threatens food security. The depletion of forests results in the loss of fertile soil, making it harder for farmers to grow crops. This contributes to poverty and rural-urban migration, as families move to cities in search of better opportunities.
The battle against deforestation requires urgent and coordinated action. The government, civil society, and private sector must work together to implement sustainable land-use practices and enforce laws against illegal logging. Community involvement is also crucial. Empowering local communities through education, alternative livelihoods, and reforestation initiatives can reduce dependence on forest resources. Organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must lead the charge in promoting awareness and advocating for policies that balance development with environmental preservation.
Moreover, international support through initiatives like the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) program can provide much-needed financial and technical assistance to combat deforestation.
The effects of deforestation in Sierra Leone go beyond environmental degradation they threaten our economy, health, and future. As custodians of our natural heritage, it is our collective responsibility to safeguard Sierra Leone’s forests for the generations to come. The time to act is now.