Project Period:
The project was successfully implemented over a 12-month period, from August 2024 to July 2025.
Overview
The Accelerated Rural Development Organization (ARDO), with support from the New England Biolabs Foundation, carried out the project to strengthen environmental sustainability, tourism, and local livelihoods in the Guan District. The initiative focused on biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and the improvement of economic opportunities within the Togo Plateau landscape.
The project also sought to build on earlier conservation work, expand environmental education, and deepen community involvement in sustainable resource management and tourism.
Project Objectives
The project aimed to:
- Restore and enhance ecosystem services in the Guan District.
- Promote ecotourism at sacred sites such as the Likpe Ancestral Caves and Wadzakli Falls.
- Support food sovereignty and the economic wellbeing of local communities.
- Strengthen indigenous knowledge and practices in biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship.
Key Achievements
1. Ecosystem Restoration and Conservation
Degraded areas and Indigenous Community Conserved Areas were restored and protected. A tree nursery was established and raised 10,000 seedlings for reforestation along water bodies and other sensitive landscapes. Fire volunteer groups were trained and equipped, which helped limit wildfire spread and protected sacred sites.
2. Ecotourism Development
Awareness and visitation to the Likpe Ancestral Caves and Wadzakli Falls improved. Local tour guides received refresher training. Promotional materials, including flyers and media content, were developed to support ecotourism growth.
3. Economic Empowerment and Livelihood Enhancement
Farmer groups received training in organic vegetable production with focus on dry-season farming and sustainable practices. Irrigation systems and basic farm tools were provided to improve efficiency and support income generation.
4. Community Education and Engagement
Five radio discussions and four community fora were held to raise awareness on climate action, biodiversity conservation, and ecotourism. Media platforms were used throughout the project to support public education and outreach.
Lessons Learned
The project demonstrated the value of integrating indigenous cultural practices with modern conservation approaches. Collaboration with traditional leaders and local communities strengthened efforts to protect sacred sites and promote sustainable farming. The experience also highlighted ongoing challenges in balancing traditional conservation knowledge with modern approaches.
Beneficiary Communities
The project directly benefited the following communities within the Guan District:
- Likpe Todome
- Likpe Bala
- Lolobi Ashiambi
- Kukurantumi
Adjacent communities such as Mate, Bakua, Dzolu, Ayoma, and Abrani also participated in and benefited from the project’s activities.
