AfDB green signals recommendations for Form Ghana Reforestation Project

The reforestation project aims to restore 11,700 hectares of degraded forest reserves through the establishment of a large-scale sustainable commercial forest plantation in Ghana.

The implementation of mitigation measures to bring Form Ghana Reforestation Project into compliance with Bank environmental and social standards have received a green light from the African Development Bank. The Bank’s Independent Review Mechanism made the recommendations after a spot check review.

The reforestation project aims to restore 11,700 hectares of degraded forest reserves through the establishment of a large-scale sustainable commercial forest plantation in Ghana. The Bank’s board approved the project in July 2016, giving it a corporate loan of USD 14 million. The funding is part of a larger financing envelope that includes a senior concessional loan from the Forest Investment Program (FIP).

“The approval of the compliance check recommendations is instrumental to making sure that the reforestation project meets the requirements of the Bank’s Integrated Safeguards System, aimed at improving the livelihoods of communities as well as boosting forest restoration in Ghana”, said Sekou Toure, Bank Director, Compliance Review and Mediation Unit.

Spot check reviews are undertaken by the IRM to ensure implementation of environmental and social safeguard standards of projects financed by the African Development Bank Group during their preparation and implementation stage.

The recommendations ensure the project complies with the Operational Safeguards of the 2013 Integrated Safeguards System of the Bank (ISS). They also integrate mitigation measures on the environment and social assessment, involuntary resettlement, land acquisition and compensation, pollution prevention, control of hazardous materials and resources efficiency as well as labour working conditions, health and safety.

The IRM issued the report following the review of project documents and supervision reports, extensive consultations with Bank Management, the project team and the sponsor Form Ghana Ltd. The report was also based on data collected during a site visit and meetings with stakeholders, such as national and local authorities and communities affected by the Project.