24/04/2026
Expanding the Frontier: Zortarpa Leadership Proposes Massive Community Forest Reserve Near the ENNR
In a significant move toward large-scale community stewardship, the Zortarpa town leadership, represented by Mr. Barry Gono, has formally expressed interest in legally reserving a vast tract of community land for conservation. While the initial estimate stands at 500+ hectares, leadership noted during the launch that the actual forest area could be significantly larger once officially measured.
Mr. Gono clarified that while this land is situated in close proximity to the East Nimba Nature Reserve (ENNR), it remains distinct community land, independent of the formal reserve boundaries. By seeking to protect this area, the leadership is aiming to create a vital ecological corridor and a sustainable resource for future generations. Mr. Gono specifically called upon the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and international partners to provide the technical and legal framework necessary to aid in the formal measurement and reservation process.
The FDA Region IV office and the ENNR Co-Management Committee welcomed the proposal, recognizing that such grassroots initiatives are essential for landscape-level conservation. The prospect of a community-managed forest of this scale would significantly enhance the protection of Nimba’s biodiversity while ensuring the community retains sovereign rights over their natural heritage.
Youth Glow is committed to supporting this ambitious transition. By facilitating the technical dialogue between the Zortarpa leadership and the FDA, we aim to ensure this proposal moves from a vision to a legally protected reality. This initiative proves that community-led conservation is the most powerful tool for protecting Liberia's forests and securing a green legacy for our youth.
