The people of Korninga B Community Forest have taken a historic step toward sustainable forest governance with the successful completion of a three-day Capacity Building Training on Reduced Impact Logging (RIL). Held from August 19–21, the training was organized under the European Union-funded LEH GO GREEN Project.
The training aimed to enhance the organizational, institutional, and operational capacity of the Community Forest Management Body (CFMB), Community Assembly (CA), and Executive Committee (EC). It equipped participants to adopt community-based reduced-impact logging practices that balance conservation goals with local livelihoods.
Training modules included key topics such as leadership and team building, financial management, legal compliance, forest monitoring, environmental safeguards, and benefit-sharing mechanisms.
Facilitated by experts from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and independent trainers, the sessions included role plays, group discussions, and practical exercises, giving participants hands-on skills and positioning Korninga B as a potential model for community-led sustainable forest management in Liberia.
At the closing ceremony, Paramount Chief George Sumo praised the selection of Korninga B for the initiative.
Out of over 100 forest communities across Liberia, Korninga B was selected. This project is transformative—it will enable our community to own equipment, carry out logging activities, and generate income directly.
Chief Sumo encouraged CFMB leaders to cooperate and committed his full support for the project’s success.
Dean Elder Matthew B. Joe emphasized unity between Korninga A and B, reminding participants that the forest belongs to all.
No one was forced to sign this agreement, and everyone will be held accountable for their actions. Within the three-year project period, we must achieve visible development.
Madam Nowah Sumo, Chairlady of Tawalata and women’s representative, conveyed heartfelt support for the project’s long-term vision.
This project warms my heart. Women must stay strong and ensure we thrive in peace and harmony—for ourselves and our children’s future.
Youth representative Levi Laban shared the enthusiasm of young people. “This initiative is a golden opportunity to create jobs, improve our lives, and sustainably manage our forest. We stand ready to support it wholeheartedly.”
Although concerns about delays in communication were raised, the workshop ended with a unified pledge from chiefs, elders, women, youth, and community leaders to collaborate for the success of the RIL initiative.
Participants even created a slogan to express their dedication: “This is our forest, our future, our time to go green.”
As the LEH GO GREEN Project continues to develop across the Gola and Grebo-Krahn regions, Korninga B now stands out as a shining example of how communities can combine tradition with innovation to create a sustainable future.
