Zambia has embraced community forestry (CF) as a strategy that places local communities at the heart of sustainable forest management. Since 2014, both government and non-state actors have supported Community Forestry (CF) initiatives that strengthen local governance of forest resources, improve local livelihoods, and protect ecosystems.
These efforts have led to a significant increase in requests for formal recognition of Community Forest Management Groups (CFMG): in North Western Province alone, 127 CMFGs have begun the process for formal recognition, many with support from carbon project developers. However, none of these groups have yet completed the full seven-step CF formalization process.
A new UN-REDD Programme publication, Community forest management groups in North Western province, Zambia. Assessment report, examines the current situation and aims to inform national community forestry efforts, strengthen the role of communities as local climate actors, and support the mobilization of finance for local climate action.
The assessment finds that community forestry offers a strong pathway for forest conservation, green economic development and local climate action. Several CFMGs in North Western province have already demonstrated leadership, effective governance, active forest protection measures, and innovative sustainable livelihoods based on forest products. However, community forestry is a long-term process and all CFMGs still require further assistance. The identified priority actions include:
- strengthening community-led governance systems and capacities,
- reinforcing of partnerships with government, NGOs and private actors.
- promoting self-sufficiency through local economic benefits,
- sustaining targeted technical and financial, particularly in early stages,
- generating and sharing knowledge
- recognizing and learning from successful community forestry experiences.
The study also identified areas for potential community forestry expansion in the five districts in North Western province, along with priority zones for protecting ecosystem services, supporting forest restoration, and addressing forest loss. However, the study recommends first strengthening existing CFMGs, which can serve as models for replication.
Future support to CFMGs as local climate actors should explore diverse CF strategies and sources of income, allowing communities to set their own pace and scope. With the right support and enabling conditions, investments in community forestry can be profitable, equitable, and sustainable, offering a clear pathway to low-emissions, resilient, and inclusive development in Zambia.
