Sharing Swedish Expertise for Sustainable Forestry in Armenia

04/03/2025

When Axel Stroemberg joined FAO Armenia as an Associate Forestry Officer, he took on a crucial role in applying his knowledge and skills to “Forest resilience of Armenia, enhancing adaptation and rural green growth via mitigation” project. His assignment is not just about gaining experience but also about applying his expertise to support Armenia’s forestry sector with technical knowledge, strategic insights, and guidance for sustainable forest management.

Axel’s passion for forestry was shaped early on by time spent with his grandfather on a small farm near the forest in Sweden. This connection to nature led him to pursue a bachelor's and master’s degree in forestry at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. His international experience further broadened his perspective—volunteering in Kenya and Tanzania exposed him to diverse forestry practices, and a field study in Mozambique allowed him to evaluate small batch kilns powered by firewood, deepening his understanding of global forest management challenges.

Arriving in Armenia, Axel faced the challenge of adapting to a new forestry context. With no prior experience in the region, he quickly immersed himself in studying Armenia’s forest sector, drawing comparisons with international models while providing technical input based on his background. He has engaged closely with colleagues at FAO Armenia, national counterparts, and stakeholders to understand the country’s unique forestry dynamics, contributing to discussions on policy, sustainable management, and forestry development strategies.

Armenia’s forests, Axel observed, are relatively young and non-homogeneous, making effective management and conservation essential. He has played a role in assessing sustainable forestry practices, offering guidance on policy development, and exploring how forest resources can be better utilized—not only for timber but also for non-wood forest products, ecotourism, and as a source of renewable energy. His work supports FAO Armenia’s broader mission to enhance sustainable forestry practices while addressing environmental and socio-economic challenges.

Beyond technical contributions, Axel is gaining valuable experience in navigating international forestry cooperation, policy engagement, and institutional collaboration. His role as an Associate Forestry Officer provides a balance of learning and leadership, equipping him with skills that will be vital for his long-term career aspirations. While he hopes to stay in Armenia for two years, his vision extends globally—whether continuing with FAO, or returning to Africa, where his passion for fieldwork was first ignited.

Axel’s work in Armenia is not just about learning; it is about impact. By sharing Swedish expertise and engaging with local forestry stakeholders, he is helping to shape the future of Armenia’s forests. His journey underscores the importance of international collaboration in sustainable forestry, demonstrating that knowledge exchange and strategic guidance can drive meaningful change in forest management.