Timeline

Objectives

• Establish model urban green spaces in Libreville and Port-Gentil.
• Raise awareness of urban ecology among citizens and students.
• Restore degraded sites and enhance biodiversity corridors.
• Promote Gabon’s natural heritage through environmental education.

Results to date

• Nursery operations at Raponda Walker Arboretum supported 4,350 plants representing 20 species in production or under maintenance. Reconstruction and expansion of the nursery were underway to support the future botanical garden and urban planting.
• A strategic and operational plan for the botanical garden identified areas for plant conservation, research, recreation and community agroforestry. A study of neighbouring communities informed proposals to involve residents in restoration and livelihood activities.
• Environmental education reached 1,009 young people from 15 educational establishments through guided visits and practical tree planting. Resources were developed for preschool and primary pupils, including illustrated materials and teachers’ guides.
• Nine surveillance missions at Raponda Walker Arboretum included seizures of illegally cut timber. Construction began on a 3.2-kilometre pilot boundary barrier to help protect the site against encroachment

Gallery