Gender and Forests The role of women as local indigenous knowledge holders in sustainable management of forests

For Nigeria to contribute to climate change mitigation through improved forest conservation and enhancing sustainable community livelihoods, the REDD+ mechanism has been activated using Cross River State (CRS) as a demonstration model. One of the priorities of REDD+ readiness in Nigeria and CRS has been identified as gender equality and social inclusion and thus steps have been taken to address gender issues by promoting a gender approach within REDD+ projects programmes. This Information Note attempts to address this issue by acknowledging and recognizing women’s critical efforts around sustainable management of forests. In this process, it highlights women’s use of indigenous knowledge systems to address climate change and its effect on communities and the vital role women play in forest conservation.