The workshop was attended by forestry information experts from ten countries in Southern Africa, and staff from FAO HQ. The objectives were (a) to give feedback on FRA 2000, (b) to evaluate a prototype national forestry information system, and (c) to make recommendations on FAO's Global Forest Survey concept. The workshop was arranged jointly by FAO, Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, and University of Stellenbosch between 12-17 February 2001.
Constructive feedback to FRA 2000 for the workshop countries was given including verification of findings. The FAO Forestry Information System was used, studying the country profiles as shown on the world wide web.
The potentials of national forestry information systems to support forest policy development was recognized. The workshop included training on and evaluation of a prototype system for South Africa, based on the FAO Forestry Information System and using the Internet for access. Overall impression was positive, and the possible role of FAO as providing a technological platform as well as facilitating the evolvement of national systems was strongly encouraged.
The Global Forest Survey (GFS) concept was discussed from the perspective of needs for policy-relevant information to advance sustainable forest management. It was concluded that information gaps are considerable in all participating countries, and that a survey of the GFS type would be helpful. Several countries expressed interest to join the pilot phase of the GFS.
Recommendations from the workshop expressed that FAO should continue its support to member countries within the subjects covered in the workshop, and that COFO 2001 should consider the potential benefits for member countries of these initiatives.
