Conclusion

Deforestation

Wood is used for building materials, cooking and heating. Forests are important for shelter and shade, as habitat for wildlife, and for timber. Forests and trees are also essential in ensuring water quality, regulating river flows and preventing soil erosion. These accounts aptly illustrate why so many Africa countries list deforestation as their principal environmental concern. As we have seen, deforestation leads to local environmental deterioration and it is closely linked with soil erosion and desertification. 

Tree Planting

We have also seen that planting trees, and measures to reduce the felling of trees, can reverse the degradation and secure the environment and livelihoods. Reforestation projects initiated by the Njawara Agricultural Training Centre in the Gambia have not only contributed to sustainable firewood production, but the trees planted are also used as windbreaks, barriers for fencing, and as fodder for animals.

Local Gain and Global Advantage

Deforestation by rural communities in Africa is only a minor contribution to global climate change compared to the effects of fossil fuel consumption by the developed world. However, stopping deforestation is still an effective and important measure to reduce escalating climate change, in addition to being highly beneficial to those communities dependent on forests for their livelihood.