MY MAGAZINE
READ ALL ARTICLES HERE
MY TRAVEL PLANACCOMMODATIONtrips & activitiesevents

Nyamina Forest and the efforts of the Janneh-Koto Foundation

My Magazine 2023/04
2 min
Gunjur Nyamina Community Forest in the Kombos is one of the most dense and pristine forests left in the region. It was preserved by Lamin F. Janneh and his family, who established the Janneh-Koto Foundation to protect it. The Foundation is now working to turn the forest into an ecotourism site to offer sustainable experiences to visitors and volunteers.

Lamin F. Janneh is a man with a calm and thoughtful demeanor. L.J. recently retired from the retired from the International Trypanotolerance Center (ITC), now renamed West Africa Livestock Innovation Center (WALIC) to focus on forest conservation, which he became passionate about through personal experience when his family's land was at risk of being divided up. He managed to convince his family members to protect the forest, which is now under the custody of the Janneh-Koto Foundation. 

Soap and body cream made from bee products.

Eco friendly furniture made out of fallen palm leaves.

Nyamina Forest is culturally significant as it was used as a post for the last King of the Kombos, Kombo Sillah, during battles with Brikama and the British colonizing forces in the mid-1800s. It was also known to be full of djinns who protected Kombo Sillah's army and helped them to defeat the king in Brikama. The forest is now a beautiful example of Gambian forest with impressive biodiversity.

The Janneh-Koto Foundation aims to create income-generating activities through sustainable development of the forest as an ecotourism site. Plans include a walkway, observation tower, hides, round huts for visitors, and a permaculture garden and food forest. The Foundation is working hard to establish the sustainability of the venture and is seeking partnerships with different organizations, government departments, and concerned individuals. Over 7,000 seedlings have been planted, and a fire belt has been created to protect the forest. The Foundation has also partnered with other Community Based Organizations involved in the restoration of the ecosystem.

 

Nyamina Forest contains many endangered species of flora and fauna, including the Temmincks Red Colobus monkey. Visitors may also see antelope, birds, flowers, and trees. A pond in the forest is constantly kept filled to provide water for wildlife. The Foundation is also involved in activities such as beekeeping, soap making, and more. 

Contact Lamin F. Janneh

Contact Lamin F. Janneh to support his amazing vision.

Did you enjoy this article? Share it with friends >>>

TIGER NUT - the Fiber-Filled Superfood
Why You Should Visit The Gambia During The Green Season

- OTHER ARTICLES -

Subscribe To Our Magazine
No spam, notifications only about new issues.
Subscription Form za Mailerlite - landing

All articles

Subscribe To Our Magazine
No spam, notifications only about new issues.
Subscription Form za Mailerlite - landing

Other articles

Save Gunjur Village Museum: Museum damaged in the Rains
Many visitors to The Gambia will be familiar with the wonderful museum based in Gunjur village, run by naturalist and cultural historian Lamin Bojang....
What is Salibo?
Have you ever been to The Gambia before? If yes, have you ever been to The Gambia around the Eid festival, and someone said to you; ˝where is my Sali...
Institute Of Travel and Tourism Graduates 69 Students
The Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia celebrated its 15th graduation ceremony on March 25th, 2023, with a keynote speech by Malleh Sallah,...
LA CUCINA - Come and Fall in Love!
What is it about an evening meal at an alfresco restaurant on the beach that makes you want to fall in love? Is it the view, the breeze whispering in ...
JOBS
© MyGambia 2024
Developed by Marklab

My Gambia Team

Typically replies within 30 minutes

We will be back soon.

Hey there 👋
We are here to help. What can I do for you?
Start Chat with us
chat