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Cashew Project Stakeholder Engagement Workshop

Green for Change Ghana with funding support from USAID through the Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment Activity (GTI) has on Thursday, 6th April 2023 organized a stakeholder engagement workshop for key players in the cashew value chain within the West Gonja municipality under the “Building Capacity of Smallholder Cashew Farmers on Harvest and Post-Harvest including Nut Quality” project. The purpose of the event was to introduce the project to stakeholders in the value chain to get their buy-in and cooperation for successful activity implementation.

ABBAT Project Baseline Enumerator
Training

Green for Change Ghana from 11th to 13th January 2023 organized a baseline enumerator training program for 25 participants under the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project at the Catholic Guest House in Damongo, Savannah Region, Ghana. The training covered the background of ABBAT, ethical considerations in research, data collection protocols, and the baseline survey questionnaire. The participants were later taken to 2 non-project communities for pre-testing of the survey instrument to enable them to better familiarize themselves with the tool ahead of the main field data collection. The ABBAT initiative is a scientific research project aimed at exploring the psychosocial and cultural barriers associated with tree planting and forest protection within the Mole ecological landscape and developing effective solutions for addressing them. The project is partially funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by Green for Change Ghana in partnership with Ranas Ltd. (a Switzerland-based company with expertise in behavior change).

ABBAT Project Stakeholder Engagement
Forum

Green for Change Ghana working in collaboration with the West Gonja Municipal Department of Agriculture conducted training on harvest and post-harvest management techniques for 300 smallholder cashew farmers under the six (6) months "Building the capacity of smallholder cashew farmers on harvest and post-harvest including nut quality” project. The training was conducted from 11th to 19th May 2023 across the 6 project implementation communities in the West Gonja municipality. Some of the topics covered during the training included pre-harvest plantation clearing, fire tracing or firebreak around the plantation, fruit collection, separation/detaching of nuts from apples using twine, drying and sorting of nuts, and cooling after drying to avoid rewetting and storage.

The project is implemented under the Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment (GTI) Activity funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

ABBAT Project Focus Group Discussions

Ten (10) focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted each with participants ranging between 8 and 12. The FGDs were done using a pre-design guide with a series of follow-up questions based on the responses from participants. To ensure broad consultation, the ten FGDs were held with different types of participants across 5 fringe communities in 2 districts within the MNP. These include 3 adult female-only participants, 3 adults male-only, 1 adult mixed, 1 youth male-only, 1 youth female-only, and 1 mixed youth FGDs. A total of 90 participants made up of relevant interest groups in the community such as farmers, charcoal burners, opinion leaders, shea processors, CREMA executives, beekeepers, etc. were covered through the FGDs. The purpose of using focus group discussions was to create a room for discussion amongst participants and enrich insights from many different individuals. The FGDs focussed on eliciting information about the beliefs, attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control, and control factors concerning tree planting and nurturing.

ABBAT Project Community Meetings

Five (5) community meetings were held with different categories of participants including community opinion leaders, and representatives of major interest groups within the community such as beekeeping associations, farmer-based organizations, CREMA Executives, youth, and women’s groups. The communities that were covered include Mognori, Kaden, Seyiri, Jelinkon, and Yolyiri. A total of 151 participants (81 male, 70 female) were reached through the community meetings. The community meetings enabled the project team to understand communities’ current living conditions, livelihoods, and possible alternatives to charcoal, and using wood as an energy source. These community meetings helped the team to also understand the social structure, land, and tree tenure regimes, and how this influences tree planting and nurturing, taboos, interaction, and power relations.

Training of Extension Agents and Cashew Farmers on Negotiation, Entrepreneurship, and Access to Improved Markets

Tree Aid Ghana with funding support from UKAID collaborated with Green for Change Ghana in 2021 to conduct training for 15 AEAs on negotiation, entrepreneurship, and access to improved markets. The training was conducted between 23rd and 24th September 2021 at the conference hall of the West Gonja Department of Agriculture at Damongo in the Savannah Region of Ghana. The objective of the training was to fully equip members of cashew cooperative and field extension agents with the requisite knowledge and skills in negotiation, entrepreneurship, and access to an improved market. Cashew cooperative members after the training used the knowledge and skills acquired in building a strong and formidable cooperative positioned to effectively liaise and negotiate with buyers for good business deals. The field team on the other hand conducted step-down training by imparting the knowledge and skills they have acquired to the farmers at the Village Tree Enterprise (VTE) group level for greater impact.

Close Season

The decline of wild animal populations must be halted and reversed if we are to sustain our heritage and livelihoods. Hence hunting, capturing, or destruction of any wildlife species is prohibited during this close season and must be done with circumspection during the open season. We owe our living today and the future generation and so is our duty to preserve wildlife within all the ecological zones of Ghana.

Shea Month

Let's join forces to restore our degrading Shea parklands. July is the appropriate month to plant as this will enable the young shea saplings to develop roots resilient enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions in the dry season.

International Forest Day

Please join the fight against climate change by participating in tree planting particularly as we celebrate the international day of forests today. March 21, 2023. Thank you

Our dedicated field team has started training beneficiaries under the ABBAT project on orchard maintenance techniques. The sessions focus on essential practices such as weed control, creating fire belts, pruning, applying organic fertilizers, and using local drip irrigation systems. Additionally, we are integrating behavior change campaigns for the treatment group to evaluate the most effective strategies when combined with traditional approaches. This training equips farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to care for both young and mature trees, ensuring that seedlings are nurtured effectively even during the dry season and amidst bushfires.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW) for their generous support in making this initiative possible! Together, we’re building a sustainable future for our communities and the environment.

As part of the Training of Trainers (ToT) program on orchard maintenance for the 12 ABBAT field team members, Green for Change Ghana conducted a pilot farmer training in a non-project community within the Nadowli-Kaleo District of Ghana’s Upper West Region. This approach allowed the officers to practice their new skills, become familiar with the training materials, and ensure that the upcoming main training sessions runs smoothly. In the coming days, they will train at least 3,000 farmers across the ABBAT project communities.

Thank you Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW) for the funding support.

Green for Change Ghana recently conducted a three-day intensive Training of Trainers (ToT) program in Wa, Upper West Region of Ghana, as part of the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project, which aims to address behavioral barriers to tree planting. The training equipped twelve field staff including ABBAT Project Officers, Agriculture Extension Agents, and Mole National Park representatives with best practices in orchard maintenance.

Key topics that were covered through the training included weed control, fire belt creation, pruning, organic fertilizer application, and local drip irrigation. The training also included both theoretical and practical components, with pilot training of farmers in non-project communities. In addition, officers from the treatment group were also trained in Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs) to integrate into the program.

ABBAT, a three-year initiative funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), focuses on using BCTs to overcome cultural and psychosocial barriers to tree planting within the Mole Ecological Landscape. The project is implemented in three districts: West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East by a consortium comprising two organizations: Green for Change Ghana and Ranas.

Green for Change Ghana recently provided essential protective gear to each of the 32 volunteers participating in our "Mobilizing Volunteers for Community-Based Natural Resources Management" (MOVE-CVN) initiative, funded by the STAR-Ghana Foundation.

This gear, which includes wellington boots, raincoats, and gloves, supports their important role as watchdogs collaborating with range supervisors from the Forest Service Division of Ghana Forestry Commission to combat illegal logging and commercial charcoal production in their communities.

Green for Change Ghana recently conducted a three-day training for 32 volunteers as part of the "Mobilizing Volunteers for Community-Based Natural Resources Management" (MOVE-CVN) project, funded by the STAR-Ghana Foundation. This project is being implemented in four priority communities within the West Gonja Municipality in the Savannah Region. The training focused on key topics such as effective community engagement and communication, the importance of forests and trees, patrolling off-reserve areas, the benefits of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) in restoring degraded shea parklands, and alternative livelihoods, including the production of non-timber forest products like honey and shea.

The training which was held at the Eco Club House in Damongo from October 8th to 10th, 2024, was facilitated by senior forest officers from the Savannah Regional Forest Service Division (FSD) and range supervisors from the Buipe District Office under Ghana Forestry Commission .

In the coming days, the trained volunteers will be introduced to their communities and equipped with protective gear to work closely with FSD range supervisors. Together, they will work to combat illegal logging and reduce the harmful commercial production of charcoal, particularly from shea trees.

Green for Change Ghana recently welcomed a team from STAR-Ghana Foundation, the funding partner for our volunteerism initiative, the "Mobilizing Volunteers for Community-Based Natural Resources Management" (MOVE-CVN) project implemented in four high priority communities within the West Gonja Municipality, Savannah region. The team, comprising members from the M&E, programmes, and finance departments, visited for a monitoring mission to gain firsthand insights into the progress of the project's activities. We are thrilled to share that the project is progressing excellently! So far, we have successfully recruited 32 volunteers through a collaborative effort with key community stakeholders, ensuring inclusive representation from all groups.

In the coming days, these volunteers will receive training from the Forestry Services Division (FSD) on critical topics such as major forest offences such as illegal logging, unsustainable charcoal production, and their impacts on local ecosystems. They will also be trained in effective patrolling techniques and arrest/confiscation of forest products from illegal activities, the significance of Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) in restoring degraded shea parklands, and exploring alternative livelihoods such as beekeeping.

Once trained, these volunteers will collaborate closely with FSD range supervisors and the local community to combat illegal logging and reduce the harmful commercial production of charcoal, particularly from shea trees. Stay tuned for more updates on this impactful initiative!

Green for Change Ghana onboards new staff under the ABBAT Project

Green for Change Ghana held an onboarding session for three (3) project officers recruited to coordinate the implementation of the Addressing Behavioural Barriers and Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project in their respective districts. ABBAT is a scientific research landscape restoration project focussed on promoting effective tree planting, nurturing, and protection within the fringe communities of the Mole ecological landscape using behaviour change.

The orientation program which was held at the GCG Office in Damongo from 4th to 6th December 2023 and led by the Executive Director of Green for Change Ghana was to enable the newly recruited staff to better understand their role and increase their productivity and performance. The staff were taken through the background of the ABBAT project including the scope, goal, objectives, and the planned activities to be implemented. The orientation program also covered both the human resources and financial procedures of Green for Change Ghana.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of GCG, congratulations to our newly recruited officers Mumin Abdul Gafaru Baba, Diana Aawaar, and Kogo Michael on being part of the team! The whole organization welcomes you, and we look forward to a successful journey with you! Welcome aboard!

Green for Change Ghana holds training for the ABBAT Project Field Implementation Team

Green for Change Ghana (GCG) from 7th to 8th December 2023 organized a 2-day training session for the field implementation team under the Addressing Behavioural Barriers and Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project. The training which took place at the GCG Office in Damongo centered on community entry procedures, holding community-wide sensitization programs, and the targeting and registration of beneficiaries using the Kobo collect application. A standard guide/instruction on both community entry and sensitization was developed for the different intervention arms of the project to ensure consistency and standardization of the implementation of the activity by the field officers across both control and treatment communities.

Also, as part of the project strategy to deepen relationships with grassroots structures such as the Mole National Park (MNP), and the Department of Agriculture of West Gonja municipal, Wa East and Sawla/Tuna/Kalba and also help ensure lasting change to communities beyond the life of the project, an officer from the Collaborative Resource Management unit of MNP, and 2 Agriculture Extension Agents (AEAs) from each of the three (3) project districts has be assigned to support the project implementation. Green for Change Ghana will continue to engage these officials in all major activities of the ABBAT project that require their expertise to ensure they are not only carried along but also continue to monitor and provide technical backstopping to the project beneficiaries when the project elapses.

Green for Change Ghana Equips New Project Officers with Motorbikes and Field Equipment for ABBAT Implementation

To ensure the effective and timely implementation of the ABBAT project, Green for Change Ghana provided each of the three (3) newly recruited project officers with motorbike and other equipment to aid in their field-based activities. Thanks to our donors for the funding support. Keep the fire on Team!

Green for Change Ghana Conducts Community Entry and Sensitization for ABBAT Project

Green for Change Ghana from December 14th to 28th, 2023, conducted a community entry and sensitization initiative spanning both control and treatment communities as part of the Addressing Behavioural Barriers and Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project. The primary objective was to apprise community stakeholders of the project's goals, objectives, and interventions, seeking their buy-in, support, and cooperation throughout the project's implementation. Facilitated by the ABBAT project team in collaboration with officials from the Mole National Park and the Department of Agriculture, the community entry and sensitization efforts aimed to enhance understanding and engagement within the communities. The team also registered interested beneficiaries who expressed a desire to subscribe to the project.

ABBAT is a 3-year scientific research project to explore the psychosocial and cultural barriers associated with tree planting and forest protection within the Mole Landscape and develop effective solutions for addressing them. The project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Audemars Watkins Foundation (AWF) and implemented in three districts namely West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East by a consortium of 2 organizations, Green for Change Ghana, and Ranas Ltd. The project will be implemented from 2023 to 2025.

Green for Change Ghana Assesses Seedling Quality for ABBAT Project to Supply 1,500 Farmers with Diverse Tree Species

As part of the preparation to supply farmers with seedlings of different species based on their preferences under the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project, Green for Change Ghana conducted visits to nursery operators. The purpose was to assess the quality of the seedlings available in their inventory and determine if they could meet the requirements of the ABBAT project. The project aims to provide 1,500 beneficiaries with 40 seedlings each, allowing them to establish a one-acre plantation with a selection of different tree species.

ABBAT represents a three-year scientific research initiative aimed at exploring psychosocial and cultural barriers related to tree planting and forest protection within the Mole Landscape. It seeks to develop effective solutions to address these barriers. Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Audemars Watkins Foundation (AWF), the project is being implemented in three districts West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East by a consortium comprising two organizations: Green for Change Ghana and Ranas Ltd.

2024 International Women’s Day

Wishing a joyful International Women's Day to all women, especially those from underserved communities, who work tirelessly every day to enhance the well-being of their families.

International Day of Forest 2024

Let's join hands to celebrate the beauty and importance of our forests. From the air we breathe to the wildlife they shelter; forests are vital for our planet's health. Let's commit to preserving and nurturing them for generations to come!

Grouping registered ABBAT beneficiaries to ensure effective training and implementation of project interventions.

In preparation for the launch of its standard training and behavior change campaign, Green for Change Ghana organized the 1,544 beneficiaries enrolled in the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project into groups of 20 and 30 individuals each. This arrangement aimed to ensure the effective implementation of training activities. Depending on the treatment arm, these groups will receive training covering best practices in tree planting, orchard maintenance, and behavior change campaigns.

ABBAT represents a three-year scientific research initiative aimed at addressing psychosocial and cultural barriers to tree planting and forest protection within the Mole Ecological Landscape. The project combines tree planting, nurturing, and protection with different behavior change techniques (BCTs) to determine their effectiveness in achieving success in landscape restoration. Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), ABBAT is being implemented in three districts West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East by a consortium comprising two organizations: Green for Change Ghana and Ranas.

Green for Change Ghana Holds Initial Engagement Meeting with Tangelic on Sunrise Spectrum Initiative for Renewable Energy in Underserved Communities

Green for Change Ghana (GCG) recently held an initial engagement meeting with Tangelic (an American-based NGO) to discuss a potential collaboration for implementing a renewable energy project titled the Sunrise Spectrum Initiative (SSI). During the meeting, the Tangelic team led by Jesston Williams engaged with GCG staff, local communities in the Savannah region of Ghana, and staff from Mole National Park.

The SSI project aims to bring solar power and clean or energy-efficient cookstoves to underserved communities. This initiative will not only empower rural communities to build a sustainable future but will also significantly reduce the time rural women and young girls spend collecting fuelwood or burning charcoal for household energy freeing them up to focus on their education and participate in more productive activities while supporting environmental conservation.

If you’re interested in being part of this journey, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

GCG conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) program for field teams on best practices in tree planting and new farm establishment

As part of the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project, Green for Change Ghana organized a three-day Training of Trainers (ToT) program. This program aimed to educate ten (10) field staff members, comprising the 3 ABBAT Project Officers, Agriculture Extension Agents (AEAs) from the district department of agriculture, and representatives from the Mole National Park (MNP), on the best practices in tree planting and new farm establishment. The training, held at Sawla View in the Sawla/Tuna/Kalba District of the Savannah Region of Ghana from 8th to 10th May 2024, was carefully designed to minimize potential contamination or spillover effects. As such the first day focused solely on officers from the control group, while the subsequent two days were dedicated to those from the treatment group.

The technical part of the training was conducted by a senior agronomist from the Department of Agriculture for each group. Additionally, Miriam Harter of Ranas guided officers from the treatment group through the Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs) promoted under the project. The training encompassed both theoretical and practical sessions, including role-playing and pilot training in non-project communities. Upon completion, the trained officers will receive support, resources, tools, and equipment necessary to conduct step-down training for the 1,544 beneficiaries enrolled in the project before the scheduled seedlings distribution in June 2024.

ABBAT represents a three-year scientific research initiative aimed at addressing psychosocial and cultural barriers to tree planting and forest protection within the Mole Ecological Landscape. The project combines tree planting, nurturing, and protection with different behavior change techniques (BCTs) to determine their effectiveness in achieving success in landscape restoration. Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), ABBAT is being implemented in three districts—West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East—by a consortium comprising two organizations: Green for Change Ghana and Ranas.

World Environment Day 2024

Happy World Environment Day! Let's join forces to combat climate change, promote renewable energy, and foster a greener future.

Stakeholder Engagement Workshop on Landscape Restoration and Tree Planting Best Practices under the ABBAT Project

Green for Change Ghana organized a stakeholder engagement workshop on May 31, 2024, in Damongo, Savannah Region, as part of the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project. This event brought together key stakeholders in landscape restoration and ecosystem management, including participants from the Forest Research Institute of Ghana, departments of agriculture, academic institutions, NGOs, project communities, CREMAs, and environmental enthusiasts from the beneficiary districts.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the ABBAT project, present key findings from the baseline study, and outline the planned activities and interventions for the control and treatment districts involved. The baseline study offered valuable insights into the current landscape and identified behavioral factors related to tree planting, nurturing, and protection.

As part of the ABBAT project, over 60,000 tree seedlings of various species will be distributed to 1,544 farmers, with each farmer receiving 40 seedlings to plant in an agroforestry system. The project will also conduct training sessions for farmers on best practices in tree planting, nurturing, and orchard maintenance. Additionally, different behavior change techniques (BCTs) aimed at addressing the identified behavioral factors will be integrated into the tree planting, nurturing, and protection processes to assess their effectiveness in achieving successful landscape restoration.

The project is implemented in three of the five districts fringing the Mole Ecological Landscape: West Gonja Municipality and Sawla/Tuna/Kalba in the Savannah Region (treatment districts) and Wa East in the Upper West Region (control district). Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), the project began in August 2022 and will continue until September 2025. Efforts are ongoing to secure co-funding for the evaluation and upscaling phase.

Community-Based Training on Tree Planting Best Practices for 1,544 Farmers under the ABBAT Project

We have initiated community-based training on best practices in tree planting for 1,544 farmers as part of the scientific research ABBAT project, implemented by Green for Change Ghana in partnership with Ranas.

The training which is facilitated by our district-based project officers with the support of the Agriculture Extension Agents (AEAs) from the district departments of agriculture, and officials from Mole National Park (MNP) encompassed both theoretical and practical sessions, including the promotion of behavior change techniques specifically for the treatment districts.

The trained farmers will apply the knowledge and skills acquired to prepare their farms in readiness for the tree seedlings which will be distributed later within this month of June.

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2024

On this World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, let's remember that land degradation impacts us all. Together, we can restore our lands and secure a brighter future.

Join the fight against desertification and drought, even if it's just by planting a single tree. With $1, we can plant and nurture a tree on your behalf. Contact us at info@greenforchangeghana.org

Green for Change Ghana Partners with Matt25 Foundation to Support Green Ghana Day and Empower Chera Women Sheabutter Cooperative

In support of the 2024 Green Ghana Day under the theme "Growing for a Greener Tomorrow," Green for Change Ghana collaborated with the Matt25 Foundation to support the Chera Women Sheabutter Cooperative based in North East Region of Ghana closed to the Western Wildlife Corridor. Together, we provided over 1,000 tree seedlings, including Mahogany, Cassia, Teak, Cashew, and Mango species. The trees were planted in community-degraded areas, schools, and farmlands.

This initiative significantly contributes to the Green Ghana Campaign by promoting reforestation and environmental conservation, which are crucial for building climate resilience and enhancing local ecosystems. By improving tree cover, we help combat climate change, reduce soil erosion, and improve air quality. The cooperative's efforts in planting these trees will not only enhance the community's resilience to environmental challenges but also improve livelihoods through the long-term benefits of sustainable tree cultivation.

Before the distribution and planting, Green for Change Ghana, educated participants on the best practices in tree planting and nurturing. This ensures the sustainability of the initiative and empowers the community with the knowledge needed to maintain the health of the new trees. Through these combined efforts, we are making strides towards a greener, more resilient future for Ghana.

Green for Change Ghana Delivers Over 62,000 Seedlings for Restoration under the ABBAT Project

Green for Change Ghana has delivered over 62,000 seedlings made up of shea, mahogany, kapok, moringa, teak, mango, and cashew to project communities under the ABBAT Project. In the coming days, these seedlings will be distributed to each of the 1,544 sedentary farmers enrolled in the project. This will be followed by monitoring activities and the implementation of behavior change techniques to address bottlenecks in the nurturing process.

We extend our gratitude to the Global Shea Alliance for providing us with 30,000 seedlings to help restore the degrading Shea parklands. Thanks also to the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW) for the funding support.

Green for Change Ghana Trains Saints Peter and Paul Parish on Tree Planting for Laudato Si Program

Green for Change Ghana, in support of the Laudato Si program introduced by Pope Francis, conducted training for parishioners of the Saints Peter and Paul Parish in the Tamale Archdiocese of Ghana including non-parishioners, and members of other religious groups in the area. The training emphasized best practices for tree planting and nurturing, aligning with the Holy Father Pope Francis's call for environmental stewardship.

The training program equipped participants with the skills and knowledge needed to prepare their planting areas in anticipation of receiving over 1,000 tree seedlings in the coming weeks of July 2024. These seedlings, once distributed, will be planted in homes, schools, and community-degraded areas to help green the environment, reduce carbon footprints, and contribute to addressing the pressing issue of environmental degradation in Ghana.

Green for Change Ghana Distributes 1,200 Tree Seedlings to Saints Peter and Paul Parish for Laudato Si Program

Green for Change Ghana, provided closed to 1,200 tree seedlings including Guava, Mango, Cashew, Orange, and Cassia to Saints Peter and Paul Parish in the Tamale Archdiocese of Ghana under the Laudato Si program introduced by Pope Francis to protect the environment. These seedlings were distributed to both parishioners and non-parishioners for planting in their homes, backyard gardens, and degraded areas within their communities. Additionally, interested schools within the parish also received seedlings to plant on their premises.

We are open to strategic collaborations and funding support to scale this initiative to all the over 16 parishes/places of worship within the archdiocese. Our goal next year is to provide 30,000 seedlings to interested beneficiaries to help green their homes and contribute to improving the micro-climatic conditions in their communities.

If you are interested in supporting this initiative, please contact us at info@greenforchangeghana.org

Secretary General of Fondation Audemars-Watkins meets Green for Change Ghana ABBAT Project Team

We are excited to welcome the Secretary General of the Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW) to the Green for Change Ghana office in Damongo in the Savannah region of Ghana. As one of the donors of the ABBAT project, the Secretary General is visiting Ghana for the first time on behalf of FAW to meet and interact with the Green for Change Ghana ABBAT project staff, gain firsthand insights from their experiences, and review the progress of project activities.

During his visit, we will also visit project communities to facilitate direct interactions with project beneficiaries, learn from their experiences in landscape restoration, and tour the planted sites of beneficiaries. Additionally, we will meet and interact with key partners involved in the ABBAT project. Updates will follow soon.

ABBAT Project Beneficiaries Receive Tree Seedlings and Commit to Restoration with Behavior Change Techniques

Our beneficiaries under the Addressing Behavioral Barriers Associated with Tree Planting (ABBAT) project have received their chosen tree seedlings for planting. In line with the RANAS approach to systematic behavior change, those in the treatment districts were also provided with a special ABBAT sticker to place at a prominent spot in their homes. This sticker symbolizes their bond and commitment to plant, nurture, and protect the seedlings they received.

ABBAT represents a three-year scientific research initiative aimed at addressing psychosocial and cultural barriers to tree planting within the Mole Ecological Landscape. The project combines tree planting, nurturing, and protection with different behavior change techniques (BCTs) to determine their effectiveness in achieving success in restoration. Funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), ABBAT is being implemented in three districts—West Gonja, Sawla/Tuna/Kalba, and Wa East—by a consortium comprising two organizations: Green for Change Ghana and Ranas.

FAW Secretary General Visits ABBAT Project Districts to monitor project activities at firsthand

We're excited to share that the Secretary General of Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW) recently conducted a field monitoring visit to two of the Green for Change Ghana ABBAT project districts: West Gonja and Sawla/Tuna/Kalba in the Savannah Region of Ghana. FAW and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation are key donors of the ABBAT project aimed at addressing psychosocial and cultural barriers to tree planting within the Mole Ecological Landscape. The project combines tree planting, nurturing, and protection with various behavior change techniques (BCTs) to assess their effectiveness in restoration efforts.

During his visit, he had the incredible opportunity to:

Meet and interact firsthand with ABBAT project beneficiaries

Learn about their experiences, challenges, and aspirations

Visit the planted sites of our dedicated farmers

Engage with key stakeholders involved in the project

This visit marked a significant milestone for us, showcasing the dedication and hard work of everyone involved. We remain committed to working with communities to help green the environment, build local resilience against climate change, and foster sustainable development and empowerment for households.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make strides in our mission! 💪🌱

Secretary General of FAW Connects with Nature at Mole National Park

We made time for the Secretary General of Fondation Audemars-Watkins (FAW), to connect with nature at Mole National Park during his time with us. He experienced wildlife up close, observing animals such as elephants, waterbucks, bushbucks, kobs, warthogs, bird species, baboons, and more in their natural habitat. Additionally, we toured the Larabanga Mystic Stone and the ancient mosque considered the oldest mosque in Ghana and West Africa.

This visit not only highlights the incredible biodiversity of the Mole Ecological Landscape but also underscores the importance of our conservation efforts as an environmental non-profit organization. 🌿🐘🌳

Make time to visit Mole National Park whenever you are in Ghana and the Savannah region to enjoy the beauty of our natural world! 🌍✨

Happy World Rangers Day!

Today 31st July 2024, we celebrate the incredible dedication and bravery of rangers worldwide and the Mole National Park in particular. These unsung heroes work tirelessly on the front lines of conservation, protecting our planet's precious wildlife and natural habitats. Their efforts are vital in safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and wonder of nature.

Join us in honoring these remarkable individuals for their commitment to preserving our environment. Let's support and recognize their invaluable contributions to conservation efforts globally. Thank you, rangers, for your unwavering courage and passion. 🌳🦁🦒

Green for Change Ghana Trains Field Team on Innovative Water Conservation Techniques to Support Seedling Growth in ABBAT Project

Green for Change Ghana trained the ABBAT field team from the three project implementation districts in water conservation techniques, including mulching and an innovative, cost-effective local drip irrigation method. This method uses empty water bottles with small drilled holes, filled with water and placed at the base of plants, to ensure consistent hydration.

The field team comprising GCG project officers and officials from the department of agriculture and the Mole National Park will during their biweekly field monitoring visits and behavior change campaign implementations guide the 1,544 project beneficiaries in adopting these practices on their farm plantations.

These methods will help retain moisture, improve soil health, and enhance the growth of the seedlings distributed to farmers under the project, especially during the prolonged dry spells observed across the country. Also, the use of readily available and recyclable water bottles makes this approach both practical and sustainable.

Green for Change Ghana Engages Stakeholders for the MOVE-CVN Volunteerism Project to Combat Illegal Logging and Protect Ecosystems

Green for Change Ghana has conducted stakeholder engagement meetings with the Savannah Regional Forest Service Division under the Ghana Forestry Commission, the Department of Agriculture, and other relevant stakeholders. These meetings aimed to introduce our new volunteerism project, solicit feedback, and gain support for its implementation. The one-year pilot project, titled "Mobilizing Volunteers for Community-Based Natural Resources Management (MOVE-CVN)" and funded by the STAR-Ghana Foundation seeks to work with local communities to identify, train, and empower volunteers as environmental stewards. These volunteers will collaborate with state institutions like the Forest Service Division to increase surveillance, and serve as watchdogs against illegal logging and destructive charcoal production, particularly using economically important trees such as Shea.

The MOVE-CVN project will not only tackle the rampant illegal logging and commercial charcoal production in the Savannah region of Ghana, which is negatively impacting farm productivity, food security, and poverty, but it will also play a role in combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The project will be implemented in four high-priority communities within the West Gonja Municipality from June 2024 to May 2025, with the goal of protecting the fragile woodland ecosystem and preserving indigenous livelihoods.

Join Us Live on Diamond FM to Explore Our Environmental and Climate Action Initiatives

Tune in to Diamond FM at 9 AM today to hear us discuss our impactful work in environmental conservation, sustainable agricultural practices, climate change, and landscape restoration, among other important topics.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about our initiatives and how we’re making a difference!

Community Entry and Sensitization on the STAR-Ghana Funded MOVE-CVN Volunteerism Initiative

Under our pilot volunteerism initiative, "Mobilizing Volunteers for Community-Based Natural Resources Management (MOVE-CVN)," funded by STAR-Ghana Foundation, we've successfully completed community entry and sensitization in four high priority communities within the West Gonja Municipality, Savannah region. The enthusiastic response from opinion leaders and community members reflects strong local support and commitment to the project's success.

Each community was actively involved in selecting their volunteers, ensuring representation from various stakeholders and identifiable interest groups in the community. A total of 32 volunteers were chosen and will soon undergo comprehensive training to become environmental stewards. They will work closely with the Forest Service Division of the Ghana Forestry Commission, serving as watchdogs to protect our fragile ecosystems by combating illegal logging and destructive charcoal production practices that endanger valuable trees like Shea.

Through this initiative, we aim to address the pressing issues of illegal logging and unsustainable charcoal production that are devastating our woodlands, impacting farm productivity, and contributing to climate change. Join us in this vital endeavor to protect our natural heritage and combat climate change.

Strengthening Commitment and Resilience: Monitoring Progress Under the ABBAT Project

During our recent monitoring visit under the ABBAT project, our field team engaged with beneficiaries to reinforce their commitment to nurturing the seedlings provided. We focused on key behavioral factors such as personal norms, social influence, and pride in tree planting, aligning with the Ranas model of systematic behavior change.

We also provided beneficiaries with hands-on training in water conservation techniques, including drip irrigation and mulching, to help farmers adapt to challenging weather conditions. Despite nearly two months of prolonged dry spells, it was encouraging to see many seedlings thriving on the farms we visited.

These visits are crucial in ensuring that the beneficiaries not only maintain their commitment but also overcome barriers, build confidence, and continue their vital work in the nurturing and protection of the planted trees.

Monitoring Progress: GTI Team Visits Cashew Farmers' Capacity-Building Project in Savannah Region

We receive a Team from the Ghana Trade and Investment (GTI) Activity to monitor project activities under our “Building the capacity of smallholder cashew farmers on harvest and post-harvest including nut quality” initiative funded by USAID through the Feed the Future GTI Activity and implemented by Green for Change Ghana in six (6) cashew production communities in the West Gonja municipality of the Savannah region. The visit forms part of information gathering for the USAID Environmental Compliance Monitoring and Reporting of grantees activities.

Under the project Green for Change Ghana provided direct capacity-building to 300 cashew producers on best practices in cashew production including new farm establishment, orchard maintenance, harvest and post-harvest management techniques, nut quality, soil and water conservation, integrated pest and diseases management as well as negotiation, entrepreneurship, and access to improved markets to improve the quality and quantity of raw cashew nuts (RCN) and also guarantee a premium price for farmers enhancing profits and improve the livelihoods of cashew producers and their households. Is almost a year post implementation and it was exciting to see that cashew plants of beneficiaries are yielding greatly with good quality RCN.

To consolidate the gains chalked, we are still exploring for funding and partnership to establish a cashew processing center, aimed at transforming farmers' cashew nuts into kernels. This endeavor aims to empower cashew farmers in the Savannah region of Ghana, eliminate intermediary traders, and ultimately enhance the profitability of cashew farming as well as reduce the over dependence of communities on natural resources for their livelihood.

Strengthening Operations: Organizational Capacity Assessment Conducted for Green for Change Ghana

Green for Change Ghana recently partnered with a consultant from the USAID Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment (GTI) activity to undertake an Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA). This initiative is part of our role as a grantee under the "Building Capacity of Smallholder Cashew Farmers on Harvest and Post-Harvest, including Nut Quality" project, implemented in the Savannah Region of Ghana.

The assessment focused on identifying critical areas for improvement to enhance our operational efficiency and support the organization’s growth. This step aligns with our commitment to driving impactful change and empowering the communities we serve.

End Illegal Mining: Secure Ghana's Future!

Green for Change Ghana is calling on the Government of Ghana to take decisive action against illegal mining, or "galamsey," as well as mining in forest reserves and water bodies. This destructive practice is not only contaminating our rivers and destroying our forests but is also threatening the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians. If we don’t act now, we will leave future generations with polluted water, degraded lands, and lost opportunities.

Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim, which once provided clean water and sustained agriculture, are now contaminated with toxic chemicals. The impact is far-reaching — destroying agriculture, endangering health, and fueling violence and corruption.

The time for decisive action is now. We call on the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the government to enforce a ban on illegal mining and reclaim our environment for the well-being of our people and future generations. Let’s come together to safeguard Ghana’s natural heritage!

STAR-Ghana Foundation Monitors Progress of MOVE-CVN Initiative in West Gonja

Celebrating Rural Women: Champions of Sustainability and Resilience

On this 2024 International Day of Rural Women, we honor the unwavering strength and critical contributions of rural women who are the heart of agriculture, water management, food security, and community development. Beyond crop cultivation, these remarkable women are at the forefront of climate change mitigation, playing vital roles in restoration and sustainable resource management.

Today, we celebrate their efforts in restoring degraded landscapes, conserving natural ecosystems, and ensuring food security for future generations. Let’s stand in solidarity with them as they lead the way toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient future. Together, we can uplift and empower these women who are key to building a greener, more prosperous world for all.