With climate change causing more frequent and severe wildfires to blaze around the world, this event in the Gambia underscored the urgent need for community-led action to mitigate forest fire risks.

Earlier this month, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the Forest and Farms Facility (FFF) initiative, in collaboration with the All-Gambia Forestry Platform (AGFP) and partners, commemorated National Anti-Forest-Fire Day in Jangjangbureh, Central River Region. The event brought together government officials, local communities, and stakeholders to reflect on the devastating socio-economic impacts of forest fires, raise awareness during the peak dry season, and advocate for proactive community participation in prevention and management efforts.

Collective action is vital

Deputy Governor of the Central River Region, Hon. Sainey Mbye emphasized the critical role of collective action: “Forest fires threaten livelihoods, biodiversity, and our shared natural heritage. As we confront increasingly dry conditions, it is imperative that communities, authorities, and partners work hand-in-hand to safeguard our forests. Prevention begins with vigilance, education, and a commitment to sustainable practices.”

Mr. Kanimang Camara, FFF Coordinator, reaffirmed the organization’s support: “FAO remains steadfast in empowering communities to combat forest fires through innovation and collaboration. This commemoration is a vital platform to amplify local voices and strengthen resilience. Together with AGFP and our partners, we are scaling up efforts to integrate traditional knowledge with modern techniques, ensuring forests thrive for generations to come.”

Highlighting local solutions

The commemoration featured interactive workshops, fire prevention demonstrations, and a dialogue. Key objectives included highlighting the link between forest health and socio-economic stability, educating communities on fire risks during the dry season, and mobilizing grassroots participation in fire management strategies, such as early warning systems and controlled burning practices.

The following local communities were rewarded with certificates of recognition for their collective efforts in preventing and managing forest fires within the jurisdiction of their respective villages:

1. Kunkundala Community Forest managed by Touba Kuta & Touba Koto villages
2. Si-Kunda Community Forest managed by Kunuku village
3. Buduck Community Forest managed by Buduck village
4. Madina Community Forest managed by Korop village

As part of its global mandate to promote sustainable forestry, FAO provided technical and logistical support to AGFP, ensuring the event amplified localized solutions. The collaboration underscores FAO’s commitment to the Global Forest Goals and the Sustainable Development Agenda, particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land). 

Wildfires threaten food security

Forest fires pose serious threats in multiple ways and on multiple levels – locally, regionally and globally.

Mr. Seeku Janko, Chairperson of AGFP, explained: “We thank FAO and all partners for their unwavering support. Forest fires are not just an environmental issue but they are a threat to food security and community well-being.”

FAO urges communities to report fire risks promptly, adopt fire-safe agricultural practices, and participate in local forest stewardship programs. Wildfires pose a serious threat to ecosystems, water sources, and agricultural productivity, further exacerbating climate vulnerabilities. Without collective action, the risks of biodiversity loss, displacement, and food insecurity will continue to rise.