A REPORT ON THE SIXTH FOREST GOVERNANCE FORUM
April 2013,
Hotel Mont Fébé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
This Forum was sponsored by the European Union Project “Strengthening African Forest Governance”, implemented by
theIDLgroup and partners.
Table of contents
I INTRODUCTION ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
II PROGRESS OF THE FORUM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
II.2 PRESENTATIONS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
II.2.1 Session 1: The state of Progress of FLEGT (VPA and EUTR) --------------------------------------------------------- 6
II.2.2 Question and Answer session I ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
II.2.3 Session Two: Corruption in the forestry sector (moderator of this session was Samuel Nguiffo; CED)-- 9
II.2.3.1 Question and answer session II ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 10
II.2.3 Session III: The implementation of FLEGT and the EUTR- perspectives from the private sector
(Moderation was done by Dr. Germain Djontu, FLEGT facilitator in the Republic of Congo) -------------------- 11
II.2.3.1 Question and Answer session III ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
II.2.4 Session IV: information and communication on VPA FLEGT (Moderation by Patrice BIGOMBE). ------- 13
II.2.4.1 Question and answer session IV ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
II.2.4.1 Question and answer session IV.1 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
II.2.5 Session V: Community forests and the management of forest royalties (moderation by Niasan Moise,
MINFOF) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
II.2.5.1 Question and answer session VI ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
II.2.6 Session VI: Agriculture and conversion of forest lands (moderation by; Dr. Phil Oyono, land tenure
expert). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
II.2.5.1 Questions and answer session VI ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
III Recommendations --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
IV Conclusion ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
List of Acronyms
EU : European Union
ETTF : European Trade and Timber Federation
EUTR : European Union Timber Regulation
RRI : Rights and Resources Institute
STBK : Société de Transformation du Bois de la Kadey
FLEGT : Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade
DFID: Department For International Development
MINFOF: Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife
MINEPDED: Ministry of environment protection and sustainable development
EFI: European Forest Institute
CIDT: Center for International Development and Training
I INTRODUCTION
On the second and third of April 2013 at the Mont FEBE conference hall in Yaoundé Cameroon, was
organized the second forum on forest governance (strengthening African Forest Governance) under
the auspices of the Ministry of forestry and wildlife. This forum was sponsored by the European Union
through the University of Wolver Hampton in London and its partners: FODER in Cameroon, the IDL
group, UKAID and DFID. This forum gathered over 165 participants from various countries
(Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, England, Central Africa,) representing, both governmental and nongovernmental organizations, as well as representatives of community forests and indigenous people
(Bakai).
Picture 1: participants watching a film projection
on VPA and due diligence
A film on VPA-FLEGT was projected before the official
opening of the forum. This film revealed the importance of
due diligence in the VPA-FLEGT implementation process. It
was however noticed that due diligence is truly difficult to
implement in countries where land tenure system is very
uncertain. All participants were impressed by the video and
Were eager to know how VPA works in other countries.
II PROGRESS OF THE FORUM
A) DAY ONE
II.1 speeches presented by front officials
Numerous Speeches were presented by officials of forest administrations and sponsors (COMIFAC,
MINFOF, EU ambassador, CIDT project director). The master of the program was Dr. Timothee
Fomete. The speeches presented in this section of the report are just a summary of the actual speeches.
The speeches are presented in the annexes.
i)
Speech presented by the CIDT-SAFG project director (DES MAHONY)
In his speech, he gave a brief history of the project and the project’s vision, listing all partners of the
project which are represented in four African countries i.e. Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of
Cameroon, Ghana and Liberia. In Cameroon, this project is
represented by a non-governmental organization entitled: Forest and
Rural development (FODER). The project mostly focuses on high
and mid-level awareness raising on VPA-FLEGT. The CIDT
partners of the project are organizing meetings at the European level.
While in Africa, meetings are being held at regional and national Picture 2: CIDT-SAFG project director
level (mid-level awareness raising).
The projects first level of desire during the forum was to capture information on the ideas, strategies
and policies that will be discussed during this forum and cast out at both national and international
levels. He also hoped that the forum will help logging companies to reach the next generation
management. This forum also falls in line with one of the approaches used by CIDT which is to
organize a series of training sessions on awareness raising.
ii)
Speech presented by the representative of COMIFAC (M. Martin TADOUM)
He expressed his gratitude to the administration of Cameroon for having authorized the organization
of this forum in Yaoundé. He equally gave a brief historical background on the creation of the
organization COMIFAC through the <<Yaoundé declaration of March 1999>>. One of its visions is to
realize the harmonization and valorization of forest products, implementation of the convergence plan.
Since 2001 COMIFAC became interested in surveying timber on the European market which today
helps to reinforce dialogue between civil societies, forest administration and other enterprises in the
forest sector.
iii)
Summary of Speech presented by the EU Ambassador for Cameroon (Raul Mateus
Paula)
He expresses his satisfaction to see all come together to talk about
the European Union Timber Regulation. He went as far as to
congratulate all partners for the organization of this forum under
the project: Strengthening African Forest Governance, whose
objective is to reinforce forest transparency, annual trainings and
reinforce stakeholders in the sector. All these accounts for the
Picture 3: EU Ambassador for Cameroon
reason why since the start of this project many forums on forest governance have been organized
within central Africa.
iv)
Summary of Speech presented by the Minister of Forestry and Wildlife through the
Secretary of State (Madam KOULSOUMNI)
A commitment for many years now on the part of Cameroon on
VPA-FLEGT alongside the tracking system of timber
demonstrates the will of the government in timber legality.
Picture 4: Secretary of State for MINFOF in
Cameroon, madam KOULSOUMNI
Some of the government’s objectives related to forest governance
is to; ensure cooperativeness among stakeholders in the forestry
sector, reconcile its commitment in the improvement of forest
governance. There is also the wish to increase mobilization of all
partners with the difficulties of poaching now faced by our country. In spite of the heavy challenges
faced by Cameroon on forest governance related issues; we hereby rely on the expertise of all
participants present in this forum, to combat these challenges.
At the end of the speech from the secretary of state, the forum was declared open. A family
photograph was taken in front of the conference hall. This was followed by a coffee break.
II.2 PRESENTATIONS
After the coffee break, a series of presentations were made. After every session of presentation was a
coffee or launch break which permitted the participants to be at ease. Moreover the Chart am House
rules were applied to this Forum whereby, after every session of presentations, a forum for discussion
through questions and answers was open. Every participant was free to express his or herself on the
current and past issues related to Forest governance in the world as a whole.
II.2.1 Session 1: The state of Progress of FLEGT (VPA and EUTR)
This session was moderated by Mr. Samuel EBIA NDONGO
of the ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in Cameroon.
Picture 5: Members of the panel of the first session of
presentations on the state of progress of VPA-FLEGT
i)
The state of Progress of VPA-FLEGT at the national and international level (Carl
Frosio, EU)
The action plan for FLEGT (VPA & RBUE) falls in line with the FLEGT action plan by EU which
was established since 2003 and is being implemented in recent years. EU’s action plan prohibits the
placement of illegal timber on the EU market. This presentation revealed all the major aspects of the
VPA-FEGT implementation process, i.e aspects on legality during the negotiation phase, the legality
assurance system, timber tracking system, FLEGT licensing scheme, independent audit, measures of
transparency in the process, measures towards good governance, joint committee for both parties and
measures adopted to suit other countries. Cameroon, Ghana, Liberia and Congo are the leading
African countries in the implementation of VPA-FLEGT, Gabon, Congo and Malaysia is in the formal
negotiation phase. We must acknowledge the fact that VPA takes a lot of time to be implemented for
example in Cameroon negotiation phase took over three years. VPA has the following stages to follow
in its operational mechanism: Defining the national consensus; bilateral negotiation process; agree
arrived at the last statement and ratification; developing the system; and finally, implementing the
VPA. Many countries haven’t yet arrived at the last stage of the operational mechanism.
In Cameroon; they are in the process of finalizing the revision of forest law; while much work on
transparency and the fight against corruption has been done; an independent auditor has been
recruited. In Congo, term of reference to recruit a consultant for the system of traceability has been
finalized; no joint committee has been organized yet; the first will be held in April 2013; the legality
system of assurance is in the development process. In Gabon, negotiations have just begun. The VPA
has a challenge to bring changes into the government on governance, reinforce relations among other
actors. There is a delay in achieving expected resultgs.
ii)
The state of Progress in the implementation VPA-FLEGT in Cameroon (Salomon
Janvier Belinga, MINFOF)
Some of the advantages of VPA in Cameroon were to increase transparency in the forestry sector and
raising awareness on the on-going activities carried by the government together with the civil society
in a bid to enhance forest governance. The objective of the VPA is to provide a legal framework to
ensure that all timber products imported within the European community from Cameroon have been
legally produced or acquired. The VPA is now part of the legal system which governs the forestry
sector in Cameroon. VPA covers all wood and products subjected to FLEGT licensing scheme and
listed in Annex 1 A of the Agreement (round wood, sawn wood, plywood, veneer and wooden furnitur
e, farm tools).
The Awareness and information of actors in the sector was made public through the management of
projects under the FAO ACP FLEGT Program (Forest Administration personnel, taxes and labor,
operators and civil society) and the organization of a VPA week. The Establishment of the institutional
framework; joint Council committees (CCS) and National council committees CNS are functional;
two meetings of the Council, three sessions and a session of CCS CNS
has been held since the entry into force of the VPA;
Reform of the legal framework (forestry law revision is in progress), draft sent to the prime ministry;
Implementation of the legality assurance system (LAS) Extension of the order on the certificates of
legality ; Preparing administrations concerned the issue of legality (development of procedures,
stocking method). The Evaluation of private certifications by the administration; LAS Independent
Audit is in progress;
with regards to transparency; a strategy for implementation of Annex VII of the Agreement on the
information to be made public has been developed and a strategy for the mitigation of corruption risks
in the supply chain of wood was developed, the allocation of securities to supply the small local
market in legal timber (40 PEBO have been assigned). Capacity for forest and wildlife control:
Development of procedures for monitoring operations, consistent with the procedures for checking the
legality:
A draft procedure manual simplified control has been developed and will be subject to approval by
September. The improvement of the national system of national control is underway with the activities
carried out in synergy the Independent Observer and the National Control Brigade. A draft TOR for
the operation of the national system control feeding IFIS II (SIGICOF 2) is developed;
some difficulties were encountered: The difficult interpretation by stakeholders, TDRs have
underpinned the development of STBC, the delay in starting the project STBC and application
development, application development in Oxford, England, which did not encourage ownership by
nationals of the technology, not the visibility of the training plan developed by the Consortium actors.
iii)
The state of Progress in the implementation VPA-FLEGT in Congo
In June 2008, negotiations began with the involvement of all actors. The Congolese government
embarked on various systems of traceability to improve its forest management. They have the mission
to create a joint monitoring committee for the implementation process. The legality system of
assurance in the process tries to accompany each forest company to ameliorate their level of legality.
There is however a great need for capacity building; need to train forestry officials on the use
traceability tools; a study to evaluate the cost of carrying out a legality system of assurance has to be
carried out. The ministry of forestry has to take necessary measures to raise funds in this respect.
There is a problem with developing a traceability system because the hired consultant did not provide
the right software’ thus a new term of reference has been elaborated to develop a new system of
traceability which will take approximately two years.
iv)
The state of Progress in the European Union timber Regulation (Michael Kearney)
The European Union timber regulation was agreed in 2010, where its main provisions are: the
prohibition of placing illegal timber on the EU market, every operator must exercise due diligence;
timber suppliers must have information to show the legality of the timber; third parties may present
information indicators of non-compliance to EU public authorities.
Moreover, EUTR is policed by competent authorities in 27 EU member states. The member
states have an obligation to implement and comply with the law.
Usually, all UK logging companies work in collaboration to implement the EUTR. This regulation
expects member countries to show legality in their timber supply. Moreover illegal timber is
considered as negligence on the part of the economic operator. Nevertheless, EUTR is looking forward
to work with international authorities to make the timber regulation work, verify the credibility of
information obtained.
II.2.2 Question and Answer session I
A general remark on the previous presentations shows that; there is a failure in the development of a
system of traceability. Also, the civil society must play a major role in the collection of information on
forest exploitation. A series of question were being asked ant elements of response where given.
1)
Which structure is in charge of the implementation of VPA-FLEGT in Cameroon, and how is
the Ministry of forestry involved in the process? Is there a cost to be incurred during the realization of
the implementation of VPA-FLEGT?
In Cameroon, it is the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife that is in charge of the implementation of
VPA-FLEGT, thus take the full responsibility of ensuring the effective execution of activities required
for the implementation of the VPA.
2)
What is the impact of VPA-FLEGT back in the villages and local communities? If not, in how
many years will this impact be felt at this level?
With respect to monitoring in villages, there is an independent observation service that works in that
aspect. Reports are handed over to the Government for further actions and sanctions.
3)
Have other ministries in Cameroon also revised their regulation to suit the new wind of change
(VPA-FLEGT)?
Communities have however been fully sensitized and further sensitization will still be carried out. The
implementation of the VPA will permit an impact, but until then no impact has been felt yet.
4)
What caused a halt in the evolution of the implementation process in Gabon?
At the level of EU, a legality test was carried out in Gabon, where it was noticed that; there was a lack
of budgetary control at the level of Gabon as well as lack of funding on the part of the Gabon
government.
5)
Has the legal status of concessions that are working in the line of legality been taken into
account?
At the level of Cameroon, with regards to concessions that are already working in legality, a contract
has been signed by Cameroon between two international consultants to carry out an assessment on this
aspect, results will be revealed in the long run.
II.2.3 Session Two: Corruption in the forestry sector
Moderation of this session was done by Samuel Nguiffo;
CED.
i)
Corruption in the timber sector in the congo
basin
Picture 6: Members of the presentation panel on
corruption in the forestry sector
Logging in the Congo basin is mostly carried out by small
scale. A lot of research has been carried out on the
industrial sector at the level of the Congo basin which shows that trucks will be stopped at several
check points. A dynamic definition of Corruption reveals that it is the misuse of power entrusted to us
for personal gain. This definition is real because other authors have defined corruption in the same
manner. It is unfortunate to know that the technical traceability system is not working in any of the
African countries. One of the reasons for its failure is the lack of dissemination of forest information to
all. Transparency is one of the pillars of good governance. Hence corruption blocks the pathway of
information. Information that needs to flow from bottom to top is mostly hindered. This issue of
corruption favours research in another way because, there is always something to research for. It is
therefore not a win-win system. There is always this question of: can we eradicate corruption? Hence,
Justice, equity and hope are seen as the deep roots of corruption. A way forward to reduce and
eradicate corruption in the forest sector is through the employment of competent people in services.
ii)
Corruption: its manifestations and consequences in the forestry sector, a global overview
(by: Paolo Cerruti, CIFOR)
Lots and lots of hundreds and thousands of dollars have been lost by several countries due to
corruption. The major causes of corruption in the forest sector are:
-
Increase in the demand for resources;
Extreme high value of Timber;
Low salaries of workers;
Unfair distribution of power;
Lack of heavy sanctions on defaulters.
Corruption in the forest sector influences the production of timber produced in al producing countries.
Highest amount of corruption is generated from china. In Madagascar, logging strategies are being
reviewed. Lack of incentives, culture of easy way instead of handwork promotes corruption. What do
we lose or gain if we fight or fail to fight against corruption. There is an increase in Cameroon’s
corruption perception index of corruption. This is usually published yearly by transparency
international. One of the initiatives taken in Cameroon is the adoption of a national strategy to fight
against corruption. The aim of this strategy was to develop a critical mass of stakeholders in the forest
sector domain which is made of more economic operators and the involvement of civil society so that
there is no operation in dispersed ranks. Corruption cannot be eradicated without the existence of
network. Generally, it is very difficult to describe corruption in the forest sector.
iii)
Fight against corruption in the forest sector: strategies towards actions (By: Rodrique
Ngonzo, FODER)
Corruption also cuts across various activities of the forest sector. The United Nations convention to
fight against corruption was ratified in 2006.
His intensity of corruption should be reduced through the promotion of integrity and the
implementation of heavy sanctions on defaulters. MINFOF has broken down some services in its
ministry in order to integrate a sector to fight against corruption. The signing of the VPA is therefore a
factor that fosters and mitigates so as to stamp out corruption in the forestry sector. One of the key
elements to fight against corruption is timber traceability. The validation of a training module which
defines the training of 100 stakeholders in the forest sector on the fight against corruption is also a tool
to combat corruption.
II.2.3.1 Question and answer session II
1) How do you tackle the issue of money laundry in Madagascar?
In Madagascar, the national strategy to fight against corruption is very difficult to implement
especially with the involvement of corrupt officials. However an article reveals that trade of timber is
often done at the level of the hierarchy through corruption.
2) What about timber that has legal status but is issued from illegal sources?
Due diligence is a good regulation to tackle such problems.
3) The Cameroon forest law does not make provisions for stronger sanctions, so how do we tackle
the problem of eradicating corruption by 2015?
The revision of the forest law gave an opportunity of other actors to place stronger measures to fight
against corruption. There is no substantial prove of stronger sanctions in the law as at present, its
rather unfortunate that we do not know at what level the document for the law revision is found and
how far has it been processed. There is a project related to make forest information public in the forest
sector e.g a list of information to be made public that is listed at the annex VII of the agreement. The
second measure to fight against corruption is the implementation of legal instruments that will allow
the legality of timber on the EU market.
II.2.3 Session III: The implementation of FLEGT and the EUTR- perspectives from
the private sector (Moderation was done by Dr. Germain Djontu, FLEGT facilitator in the
Republic of Congo)
i)
Timber exportation and VPA-FLEGT process in DRC (by Francoise Van
de Ven)
In October 2010-Signing of the opening negotiations VPA/FLEGT February 2011; February 2011:
first meeting of the FLEGT technical committee; April/May 2011: sub-committee works on the
legality grill for industries; June 2011: video conference with the EU on the observations on the first
project draft of the legality grill; August/September 2011: sub-committee works on the second draft of
the legality grill for industries; October 2011: suspension of the works of the subcommittee after
sending of the second version of the draft . August/September 2012: appointment of a focal point for
VPA/FLEGT. RDC and resumption of the meetings by technical committee for VPA/FLEGT. FLEGT
PROCESS IN DRC. October 2012: resumption of duty by the sub-committee Holding of different
sessions on the legality grill for industries. January 2013: first draft of the artisanal legality grill .
February till date: subcommittee works on legality assurance system and products submitted in order
to obtain the FLEGT authorisation. The FLEGT autorisation is given to the importer. European
customs are in charge of controlling all the timber coming from a country with an operational VPA
accompanied by a FLEGT authorization (no VPA put in place = no supplementary controls by
European customs). The FLEGT authorization is a formal proof of legality for competent European
authorities of EUTR. The demands on certification could be more than what the law demands.
Advantage:
ii)
The implementation of FLEGT and the EUTR- perspectives from the private sector
(Rachel Butler, ETTF)
Due diligence, care, certification and verification are the major interests of the European timber trade
federation. It is not a new concept but rather reinforces the verification the legality of timber. The
difference between due diligence and other certification are Border Controls; the terminology used
“due diligence” & “due care”; to which it is applied to. i.e in US/EU/Au laws on Enforcement; the
different legal systems. Lack of information on risk, accounts for one of the factors that hinder the
implementation of EUTR. Certification and legality verification is a tool not automatic compliance;
operators choice to use it & assess it. It has been noted that Markets will not change overnight, as
awareness will slowly change, some sectors better prepared than others. Also there is more reliance on
wood products manufactured and sourced from perceived low risk countries & EU. Valuing the forest
is a key for our market and commercialization of timber. An overview of the market shows that;
buying timber is based on many parameters; Product, sustainability, legality, competitiveness, quality,
import controls, availability, exchange rates, substitutes, life cycle analysis. No premium for legal, but
there is still some premium for certified tropical timber.
iii)
CRELICAM and Cameroon Ebony : Challenges and opportunities for trade in legal
timber (Anne Middleton, Crelicam)
Crelicam is a company operating in Cameroon that deals with the extraction of Ebony wood and
exports to other countries where it is further transformed. The Taylor environmental project is one of
the projects that transform ebony to produce hundreds and hundreds of guitars. The sustainable use
and production of guitars by this company promotes and supports the EUTR.
The extraction of this ebony is highly ensured by the company that it has been obtained from a legal
source. Investment in companies especially this one should encourage other private sectors. This brief
presentation just tries to demonstrate that there are also companies who are trying to do the right thing
in terms of timber legality.
iv)
Timber tracking system in Cameroon : appreciating the private sector (Francis sandjon,
STBK)
STBK is a forest exploitation company based in Cameroon that deals with the transformation and
exports of timber to Europe. By virtue of the VPA-FLEGT, it is noted that a wood tracking system is
just a way of implementing the forestry regulations in Cameroon and assure the legality of timber
placed on the EU market. Moreover STBK is one of the companies that were tested during the pilot
phase of the project on timber tracking system in Cameroon.
This company has an internal timber tracking system. Bar codes are being used when carrying out
inventories, felling, hauling and even on sown logs. Generally this internal tracking system tracks the
wood throughout the supply chain. Each time the wood goes into a different stage; there is a new bar
code that is introduced. This system is advantageous because all players can be identified, also
partners can be able to see what is in stock. In Cameroon the law No 2011/238 of 9/9/2011 is a law of
sustainability that binds all actors in the forest sector. Nevertheless, there is a need to build reinforce
capacity building of personnel on timber tracking system.
II.2.3.1 Question and Answer session III
1) What is the progress level of implementation of the EU timber tracking system?
The EU timber tracking system is still in the development phase in Africa, with some countries having
difficulties in establishing and implementing the process. As earlier said in previous presentations, the
system will slowly be installed and subsequently changes will be made on the EU market;
2) What is your remark and point of view on? Will the establishment of a tracking system be too
costly for countries to implement?
It is costly, but the timber tracking system is seem as a means to eradicate illegality.
3) Recent experience has shown that salary grids make one of the factors that influence
corruption. Does crelicam have any measures to improve salaries of its personnel? How does
crelicam verify the legality of the ebony he exploits?
Crelicam signed a contract with SGS helveta, thus crelicam can only talk of certification only through
training, awareness rising and senstisation on timber legality. Moreover, Crelicam does not have a
structured pace where he obtains timber, hence it however collects its timber from other sectors that
have forest management units and sale of standing timber who are operating under legal conditions
following the regulations of the forestry administration. All workers in the firm are being paid
according to their services rendered;
4) Did STBK benefit from any funding in order to carry out its internal timber tracking system?
STBK did not benefit from any support from any partner or whosoever.
In Congo, VPA gives logging companies the possibility to improve production; FLEGT also
safeguards the rights of workers. All workers have salaries which are generally based on the output of
the company.
B) DAY TWO
II.2.4 Session IV: information and communication on VPA FLEGT
Moderation during this session was done by Patrice
BIGOMBE (observateur independent).
Picture 7: Members of the presentation panel of session IV
i)
Good communication points on the mutations
involved in forest governance (Edith Johnson, EFI/EU
FLEGT Facility)
All countries implementing VPA have communication needs that have to be tackled. A series of
research question are being raised and tackled:
What works in communicating changes in revenue collection, customs, forestry, land
management Public administration?
This issue can be handled through: Regular interagency coordination – example from the Republic of
Congo; producing Newsletters, weekly emails, regular meetings and Regional exchanges/workshops –
learn from one another, focus on challenges experience - by all regional partners; Exchanges between
FLEGT practitioners from country to country.
Who does what?
Communications at national level and from the capital to the departments through regular agency
channels are the major aspects of communication nationwide.
However, communication must have a channel. There is a need to know how to communicate in order
to have good results. Experience and examples of communication projects carried out in Africa are:
SDI in Liberia carried out community meetings on new rights and benefits under 2006 Forestry Law
and the coming VPA – engaging forest communities. FCTV Project in Cameroon –carried out song
production through urban and rural partnership – engaging forest communities. Communication is an
essential tool for development.
ii)
Commitment of stakeholders in VPA FLEGT to communicate and share information
(Sebastian TCHEBAYOU, FODER Cameroon)
The goal of communication is to share and transmit information as well as to access the ideas of
others. In the framework of VPA, implementation is a multi-actor process involving varying
stakeholders recruited from the public administration, civil society, wood professionals, local
communities, etc. Communication towards or with these different stakeholders will vary in function of
the group of actors.
On what communicate?
All actors intervening in the VPA-FLEGT process needs clear communication in order to be
efficient in the process.
The definition of the roles of the different stakeholders involved in the process is a preliminary to define
the needs of information. Annex VII concerning information to be rendered public by the stakeholders:
legal information, information on production, information on attribution, information on management,
information on transformation, information on the legality assurance system and control
How to communicate?
FODER uses a cocktail of canals varying in function of the targeted groups and involving
different doses: group communication (during distribution of information on VPA-FLEGT or the
meeting of the members of the forest-environment platform), talking communication (through
presentations carried out during trainings) communication through photocopies distribution (distribution
of texts on the payment of annual forest royalties to local communities near forest titles, etc.),
communication by action during practical or during verifications of denunciations involving BNC and
IO, communication through image ( during projection of maps or illustrative photos during group
communications or training).
However, Communication which is rightly carried is a token for transparency, just as there is no
governance in opacity nor in the absence of transparency. It is without doubt to remedy this that it was
inserted in annex VII on “information rendered public”. However, to render public information, to need
to have them or they need to be accessible. SIGIF II looks like a source to diffuse information.
iii)
Experience from community radio in DRC
Radio Okapi is an initiative from the United Nations and Hirondelle Foundation. It is with this radio
station that DRC works in a general way to communicate issues on forest governance. It collects
information, process and disseminates it. Programs and magazines for information were created to
discuss environmental issues around the country. Other emissions talked on Congo environmental
issues, others on the denunciation of illegal logging in the Congo forest. Moreover, brief examples of
emissions were demonstrated during this forum.
II.2.4.1 Question and answer session IV
1) Can we succeed in communication in the implementation of the VPA without acknowledging the
involvement of other stakeholders in the process? Do private sectors or civil society know the
role they have to play?
In Cameroon, civil societies together with the administration play a role in the sensitisation of other
stakeholders on the VPA.
2) What is the best means to carry out communication? Who is apt to communicate and what is the
role of listeners in communication?
In Congo the mechanisms used by radio okapi makes it difficult to practice misinformation. There is a
hierarchical system which verifies information coming from different sources, thus it’s difficult to give
wrong information. Some information is broadcasted live. Almost all community radio stations
broadcast information in their local language and have at least one program on environment.
3) Why does administration and logging companies in Congo communicate poorly, yet they
complain of lack communication strategies? Why do people who have information do not
communicate or better still communicate to a lesser extent?
According to the Cameroon forest administration, the authorities actually communicate but not
everyone working in the administration is capable of giving particular information. Information is
available but one must go through a particular channel.
4) Do we know all actors and are they able to identify their roles? Hence if we do not a national
communication strategy how do we get out of this doom?
In Cameroon, contrary to the popular perception, communities play a great role in the implementation
of VPA. Civil society (FODER) raises awareness on the subject and talk to them on the role that they
must play to protect their own forest. Communities are also being trained on the denunciation of any
action which is deemed illegal and should be reported. They are also informed on the legal document
that the logging company must possess before carrying out exploitation.
5) How do local communities get informed? What are the feedback mechanisms on VPA to ensure
that communities communicate?
According to the European Forest Institute (EFI) it’s important to have dialogue ad knowledge as to
who to communicate with. There is a need to meet people where they are. Every community has its
own language so the transfer of information changes with respect to the actor involved. There exist
both private and public information in logging companies so we need to know which one to hold back.
6) What role can communication play to promote legality? How can communication help in
bringing people out of illegality to legality?
Legality can be promoted through sensitisation and the establishment of new communication
strategies.
There is a strategy for communication on VPA, but researchers are still looking for a way to
professionalise annex VII of the agreement. It should be noted that some information in the private
sector cannot be released.
II.2.4.1 Question and answer session IV.1
1) What would be the outcome of the development of a timber tracking system without
constant internet in Cameroon?
The problem encountered with the installation of the timber tracking system in Cameroon during its
pilot phase was due the absence of electricity “says: SGS Helveta’’. There is how ever a need to
establish a system that will keep running even in the absence of electricity and internet.
2) What is the difference between due diligence and independent audit?
According to EFI, due diligence falls in line with the European Union Timber regulation, while
independent audit is part of the process of implementation of the VPA-FLEGT in member countries.
They both work to eradicate illegal timber on the EU market.
3) How much time is required to establish a communication strategy?
According to EFI, there is no defined time to establish a communication strategy as it depends on each
country. According to FODER, communication is not done just for the sake of communicating but to
better communicate. There is therefore a need to study the area before carrying out communication
activities.
4) Is there any dispute between Independent control and Independent control?
There is no dispute between the two organisations, rather they have a major role of monitoring the
forest and ensure responsible management.
Other contribution from speakers
In Congo, community radio programs only in French but with over four (04) different local languages.
Some programs are even bilingual.
Moreover, it is important to adopt a cultural situation when carrying out communication, take into
account the weaker sector; find out what information has already been passed on to the people in order
to know what information to bring in. Nevertheless, feedback is crucial for communication.
II.2.5 Session V: Community forests and the management of forest royalties
(moderation by Niasan Moise, MINFOF)
i)
Constraints faced by community forests in the executing the legality grid for VPAFLEGT (by: Pamela Tabi, research study in university of Yaoundé I/CIFOR)
The objective of the study was to test the VPA-FLEGT legality grids at the level of community
forests. Community forests are usually found in non-permanent forest domains and have a maximum
surface area of 5000 hectares. They have a simple management plan to govern its exploitation. They
mostly carry out semi industrial and local exploitation. The VPA is aimed at eliminating illegal wood
on the domestic market. A great threat to this expectation is the fact that some rules of the VPA seem
very impossible to implement at the level of the community forests. Results of the findings show that
no community forest complied 100% to the conformity of the legality grid. The reasons for this non
conformity were:
-
Complex administrative procedures;
The delay in obtaining certificates and permits for exploitation;
High cost for communities, hence they must exploit in partnership which in return reduces
ownership at the level of the communities;
The high cost of carrying out an environmental impact assessment;
Lack of awareness.
Therefore, legality grids will be partially inapplicable to community forests. They however need to be
trained on other exploitation technics and procedures such the method of filling weigh bills.
ii)
Challenges and experience on community forestry in Lomie, south Region of
Cameroon (Dieudonne Tomboubou, a pygmy)
This is just a brief story on the reality on how the local people appreciate community forestry.
The speaker attested that what he hears here in the conference is contrary to what is happening in the
field. There is a lot of illegal practices in Lomie, this is a real problem in the area. More often, when
logging companies come to exploit, they are granted the permission by the traditional authorities, but
they later on leave the area even without paying the workers. They always make empty promises. It is
surprising to see that even at the ministry there is no representative of the local people to defend their
interest. When there is a problem and the problem is channelled to the hierarchy, there is no one to
follow up. “We feel that we are actually considered as the last in the society. In our village we
lack social amenities and yet we are now deprived of our own forest”. In other cases the exploit
ants comes and picks a few persons, persuade them into signing papers overnight. Thus when we here
of community forests, we do not know if it is meant for the iiBaotou’s or Baka. We actually need an
insight on how to go about community forestry as well as the laws associated to it, and to whom is it
meant for.
iii)
Management of forest royalties and local development arounf forest management
units. case study : Lomie area, Cameroon (Gervais MOTOMO, ASTRADHE)
One of the projects carried out by the organisation is to study the management of forest royalties and
ensure that the local communities get what they deserve as well its distribution amongst them. With
experience gotten from the project, it was noticed that there is the absence of relevant documents to
disseminate. Therefore is a need for comprehension among stakeholders. There is a lack in
information among communities. Another issue is that the communities do not partake in decision
making on the sharing of forest royalties. Hence there is a need to train local communities on the
management of forest royalties, training on fraudulent practices and the development of micro
projects. ASTRHADE is still working on the issue of communication related to this subject. They
broadcast on community radio stations; programs related to the results of missions carried on VPAFLEGT in their various project areas. These programs are often done in the local language. There is a
need to reinforce information and awareness actions in communities.
II.2.5.1 Question and answer session VI
- Is VPA relevant and indispensable for community forestry?
According to CIFOR the study was a scientific one and no applicable category was adequate for the
legality grid. It was not an advocacy but to point out were attention should be paid. Thus
-
Was the cost of annual certificates or exploitation in community forest considered when
carrying out research by CIFOR?
The costs of obtaining the certificates were not considered.
-
What are the measures taken by the government to ensure that the funds are rightly used?
According the Cameroon forest administration, there is a mix up somewhere, because since the
beginning of community forestry in Cameroon, Lomie is an area that has gained a lot with regards to
sensitisation in the domain. It is disappointing to know that nothing was retained by the communities.
The government with hereby take future measures to be more present on the field and carry out
monitoring. As concerns the management of forest royalties, a joint decree has been recently signed
showing the management of forest royalties to restore governance and transparency in its
management.
II.2.6 Session VI: Agriculture and conversion of forest lands
Moderation for this session was done by; Dr. Phil Oyono, land
tenure expert.
i) Forest conversion for industrial oil palm ; Recent
developments in the Congo basin and lessons from SE Asia
(Sam Lawson)
Oil palm over the last 20 years has been a reason for
deforestation, which has led to a great loss of biodiversity especially endangered species. Most of the
expansion of industrial plantations has been illegal with lots of corruption involved.
Picture 8: members of the presentation panel
for session VI
The Congo basin government is actively targeting large scale expansion. Many of the world’s largest
operating companies are now expending to Congo due to its vast forest land. Even though the process
has barely begun, the first few projects already demonstrate some of the same environmental & social
impacts & issues seen elsewhere. Most of the forest land is still intact and inhabits species such as the
great apes.
A case study from Cameroon is the Herackles oil palm project/SGSOC which covers 60 000hectares.
The forest was logged in the past but it’s still very intact, surrounded by important protected areas with
chimpanzees and elephants. However this project has brought about conflicts with people, NGO’s
claim concession contracts. This project started operation even without papers.
Another case study from Gabon with the Olam project. It covers 130 000 Ha, pursuing RSPO
certification. So far, even high conservation value forests (HCV) are still relatively intact. Unless
urgent action is taken now, the Congo basin is likely to follow the same path as South East Asia. The
purpose for deforestation will come from the convergence of forest lands.
The demand for power nowadays is so large that companies can’t hold back degraded lands. REDD+
and FLEGT activities in the Congo basin countries have yet to properly recognise the scale of
conversion threats. Much conversion will be legal and not prevented by VPA and EUTR. It is
necessary to prohibit unsustainable wood on the overseas market.
ii)
Political development in land use change (Mr. Vincent BELIGNÉ, adviser to the
MINFOF and MINEPDED Cameroon)
Before and after independence there was a strict control on natural resources in Cameroon. The
country is working towards emergence by 2035. Initially lands were being used substantially and often
obtained by trade and bats, but barked by customary laws. The state also recognises public use and
interest on land.
The recognition of other actors has helped in the development of the concept community forestry. This
implies that access and customary rights are subjected to customary laws. The 1994 forestry law made
provisions for council forestry and the management of natural resources within the framework of the
country.
Cameroon is the first country to promote zoning, where they protect estates for environmental
protection. A greater problem encountered is the overlapping of land titles, which now springs up in
addition to plantations owned by the local population.
The zoning of forest lands into permanent and non-permanent forest domain. There is the control of
clearing of wood and felling of trees. MINFOF herby secures forest land through the establishment of
a network of protected areas. Financial issues associated with mapping of boarders in are very
important matters. As the law is under revision, the domain of communities and council forest will be
included in the law
II.2.5.1 Questions and answer session VI
1) What incentives have been provided by the central African government for companies that seek
forest lands for cultivation? Is it not biased to create a high conservation value forest and yet
still allow the convergence of forest lands?
Redefining the forest with diverse components involved will not be easy. Especially reconciling the
components and preventing them from large scale industrial plantation.
2) What was the interest of the sponsors of the research carried out by Sam Lawson on industrial
palm plantations on forest lands? We wonder why a permit was granted to SGSOC palm
project in Cameroon.
The interest of both the sponsor and researcher was to produce palm and promote the agricultural
sector, reduce unemployment. Also civil society should not be there just to watch, but rather
transparency should prevail.
3) What are the mechanisms put in place in order to prevent deforestation?
There are a lot of problems at the level of sustainable development of lands and the prevention of
deforestation. As regards communities, there is a lot of harassment and mystery associated with land
issues. Hence there is need for further development on the mechanisms
4) In Congo there is a project as to plant 100 million trees, is it not important to carry out
reforestation that forest convergence?
As regards the reforestation in Congo, it will be a new research idea on whether to favour convergence
or reforestation and with what measures. The best approach is for the government to look for lower
forested areas for convergence.
5) Why is the Ministry of Agriculture (MINADER) absent in this Forum?
An invitation was sent, but they are too busy at the moment.
6) Why do Europeans cease all illegal produce but do not return all, i.e timber goods are being
held back while agricultural goods are being returned to their country of origin?
With respect to the ceasing of illegal goods by European Union, every category of good is judged
different. For example, for agricultural products it could be the “quality” whereas for timber it’s the
“legality” and technical compliance issues. All these aspects are handled differently at the European
boarder.
7) What is the opinion of forest concessioners on forest conversion?
The forest law recognises mining activities on forest land and concession; hence there is always a
consensus on merging activities on forest lands
Contribution from speakers in session VI:
According to Sam Lawson; the palm project has created large number of jobs than the forest sector.
Taxes are being levied on both sectors and paid as well. How are these takes used? Also we do not
know why there is no coordination between agriculture and forestry.
According to Mr Beligne Vincent on the part of Cameroon, Conversion should be organised rather
than being prevented. It’s unfortunate that the companies do not reflect in this direction of thoughts. It
will be best for the government to impose transparency regulation and bring all actors together to think
in one direction. This is so because companies are often in a hurry whereas the government needs to
organise the sector, hence there is often no comprehension between the two.
III Recommendations
-
-
-
-
It will be much easier to fight against money laundry in Cameroon than to fight against
corruption;
Gabon needs to review its system of handling budgets and be ready to disburse funds for the
development of the forestry sector in the nation;
For an effective implementation of the EUTR, Buyers & producers need to know their supply
chains;
USA, Europe & Australia illegal Logging Law reflect that; it is Important to set the level
playing Field & improve image of the Timber trade; focus should also be more on other
commodities causing deforestation;
The implementation of a timber tracking system will be benefiting not only to the government
of each VPA country, but also to the private sector. The private sector will visualize their
products more towards their partners;
Need to reinforce capacity building of all stakeholders found within the supply chain of timber;
Experiences have shown that communication changes through action and communication is
used to manage expectations as well, thus there is a need to review the communication system
in the implementation of VPA.
Every VPA country should develop its communication skills through networking with other
stakeholders involved in the process;
The establishment of a rational way of communication at the level of forest administration;
-
A technical pool should be created at the level of each country to monitor the management of
community forests;
Maximize use of existing measures related to timber (VPAs; EUTR) to block access to markets
for timber from illegal conversion.
IV Conclusion
Negotiating and Signing the VPA through its ratification, alongside other related regulations have
prompted the government to adopt and implement communication. There is no good governance
without transparency; hence the use of clear language in communication is essential in order to avoid
opaqueness. Today in Cameroon, we have great hopes on the timber tracking system to be developed
(SIGIF II) that will collect all data base and make known to the public. The impact of communication
is fundamental to prompt change in order to have expected results in a given project; hence there is
additional need for communication on VPA. The prevalence of the cultivation of forest convergence in
our countries is to the detriment of our forests. May be it will be better for Palm plantations should to
prevail because it is sure and concrete, whereas; forest is not sure.
Remarks
-
-
-
-
The absence of UK authorities in the forum was because they are too busy at the moment. It is
also necessary to know that the VPA has a clear defined communication framework, where
communication channels will be a strong guide;
Villages are the ones to develop their communities and not to wait upon the government. They
could create internal coordination meetings to propagate information and device a means to
raise funds for development;
It is important to study the targeted area for communication so to ensure that the message has
gone across;
However the forum ended up with many of the participants satisfied with the level of exchange
in information. All presentations were distributed to participants in a two gigabytes flash drive
with the EU logo and project title label;
A wide range of information was distributed to all participants through a two gigabyte flash
drive, while the final report is to be shared among all participants through their corresponding
email addresses.
Moreover, all participants expressed their level of satisfaction as regards the progress of the forum,
while laying emphasis on some loop wholes detected. It was proposed that a massive presence and
participation of the private sector and economic operators in such gatherings will be an influential tool
in improving forest governance worldwide.
Annex 1 : Ordre de Jour
JOUR 1 :
09h00-09h30min
Arrivée et inscription des participants
09h30-10h00min
Cérémonie d´Ouverture:
Aperçu du projet « Strengthening African Forest Governance » (Des MAHONY, CIDT)
Discours du M. Martin Tadoum S.E. COMIFAC
Discours de M. Le Chef de Délégation de l’Union Européenne en Cameroun
Discours de Son Excellence Madame Le Secrétaire D’Etat
10h00-10h20min
Projection d´un film sur les APV/FLEGT
10h20-10h50min
Photo de groupe et Pause-Café
10h50-11h00min
Aperçu du programme du Forum (Dr. Timothée FOMETE)
11h00-12h30min
Session 1: Etat d´avancement du processus FLEGT (APV & RBUE)
Modération: M. Samuel EBIA NDONGO
Etat d´avancement du processus AVP/FLEGT au niveau international (Carl FROSIO, Délégation UE)
Etat d´avancement de la mise en œuvre de l’APV/FLEGT au Cameroun
Etat d´avancement de la mise en œuvre de l’APV/FLEGT en Congo (Joachim KONDI, MEFDD)
Etat d’avancement du RBUE (Michael KEARNEY, UK NMO et Emily UNWIN, Client Earth)
Session Questions + Réponses
12h30-14h00min
Déjeuner
14h00-15h30min
Session 2: La corruption dans secteur forestier
Modération: Samuel NGUIFFO, CED
La corruption: ses manifestations et ses conséquences dans le secteur forestier - une perspective du Bassin de
Congo (Paolo CERUTTI, CIFOR)
La corruption dans le secteur des forêts au Cameroun et à Madagascar (Mamy RABOANARIJAONA, UNDP)
Combattre la corruption dans le secteur forestier : de la stratégie aux actions (Rodrigue NGONZO, FODER)
Session Questions et Réponses
15h30-16h00min
Pause-Café
16h00-17h30min
Session 3: La mise en œuvre du FLEGT et du RBUE - perspectives du secteur privé
Modération: Dr. Germain DJONTU, Facilitateur FLEGT en République de Congo
La mise en œuvre des APVs et du RBUE (Françoise VAN DEN VEN, FIB et Rachel BUTLER, ETTF)
Crelicam et Ebony Camerounaise: les défis et les opportunités pour le commerce du bois légal (Anne
MIDDLETON, Crelicam)
Le système de traçabilité des bois au Cameroun : Appréciation du secteur privé (Francis SANDJON, STBK)
Session Questions + Réponses
JOUR 2:
08h30-09h00min
Accueil
09h00-10h30min
Session 4: L’information et la communication dans les APV
Modération: Patrice BIGOMBE, Observateur Indépendant
Ce qui fonctionne dans la communication sur les APV: dialogue et l'engagement sur les nouvelles politiques
forestières (Edith JOHNSON, EFI)
L'engagement des parties à l'APV de communiquer des renseignements (Sébastien TCHEBAYOU, FODER)
Radio communautaire dans le secteur forestière en RDC (Emmanuel IMBANDA, Radio Okapi)
Session Questions + Réponses
10h30-11h00min
Pause-Café
11h00-12h30min
Session 5: La foresterie communautaire et la gestion des recettes forestières
Modération: Niasan MOISE (MINFOF)
Comment les forêts communautaires face aux matrices APV? Nouveau recherches par CIFOR, Nature+ et Le
Université de Gembloux (Pamela TABI, Université de Yaoundé)
La foresterie communautaire face à l'APV: défis (Dieudonné TOMBOUBOU, Communauté de NOMEDJOH)
La gestion des taxes forestières et le développement local - autour des UFA (Gervais METOMO, ASTRADH, Lomié)
Session Questions + Réponses
12h30-14h00min
Déjeuner
14h00-16h00min
Session 6: L’agriculture et la conversion de forêts
Modération: Dr. Phil René OYONO, Indépendant expert foncier
La conversion des forêts à grande échelle des plantations agricoles: développements récents dans le bassin du
Congo et les leçons de l'Asie du Sud Sam LAWSON, Earthsight Investigations)
Politiques de développement changement d'usage des terres: comment prévenir la conversion des forêts
(Vincent BELIGNE, Conseiller à MINEP et MINFOF)
Session Questions +Réponses
16h00-16h15min
FIN
Remarques de clôture (Dr. Timothée FOMETE)
Annex 2 : Liste de Participants
Name
Armelle TENAUGUEM
Adolphe Christian NSONGAN
Raul MODESTE MBIDA
Yoko OTSOMETSI EDOULOU
Joseph Bertrand NIKA NSOM
Elisabeth NGO NGUENA
Patrice METEUNOU
Alaman LEEDJUE
Felix KOUEDJI
Grace Nicole MBENDA
Evaline NTEBANI
Pygmé BUNA
Marceline MILANG
Gervais METOMO
Isaiah NKWETAGETU
NEMBONGIWE
Tieguhong Julius CHUPEZI
Julius chupezi TIEGUHONG
Robin JOHNSON
Seraphin NGOUMBE
Mbague MEFOUG CLOVIS
Joseph Desire MBELEG
M. Jean Robert NDOFI DIASUNDA
M. Jose POKA MAKAYA
Thaolice BAREGA LOMBE
Christian AMBASSA
Annette TCHOKOUAKO
Mireille TCHIAKO
Patrice KAMKUIMO
Samuel NGUIFFO
Téodyl NKUINTCHUA
M. NGOMA-A-di-MAKUITUKU
Symphorien AZANTSA
Victor AMOUGOU A.
Patrice BIGOMBE LOGO
Wouenang Wouenang
Donkeng TSAGUE
Jean Robert ONANA
Organisation
Actions pour l'Environnement et le
Développement Durable
ADECOL
ADECOL
AFAMBA
AFINEV
AfriDEV
APECAM
APON
ASD Action
ASD Action
Association Baka Buma Kpodé
Association Baka Buma Kpodé
ASSOVI
ASTRADHE
Better World Cameroon
Beyond Timber Project, Yaounde
Bioversity International
Birdlife International
Bureau Veritas
CADEC
Cameco
Caritas Congo ASBL
Caritas Congo ASBL
Caritas Congo ASBL
Cartographe GTG
CEA
CED
CED
CED
CED
CEDD
CEEAC, FLEGT
CEFAID - Cameroon
CERAD
CERAD
CEW
Chef Cellule Communicat
Email
tenarmelle@yahoo.fr
patricemet@yahoo.fr
asd.action@yahoo.fr
gracembenda@yahoo.fr
bumapygm@yahoo.fr
marcelinemilang@yahoo.fr
mnnembongwe@gmail.com
chupezi@yahoo.co.uk
jotieguhong@cgiar.org
robin.johnson@birdlife.org
seraphin.ngoumbe@cm.bureauveritas.c
om
mbagueclovis@yahoo.fr
jodedambeleg@yahoo.fr
jeanrobertndofi@yahoo.fr
josepoka@hotmail.com
barega_th@yahoo.fr
emoanette@yahoo.fr
patkapp20002001@yahoo.fr
snguiffo@yahoo.fr
nkuintchua@yahoo.fr
cedd@yahoo.fr
berreck2002@yahoo.fr
cefaid@yahoo.fr
patricebigombe@hotmail.com
tsaguehub@yahoo.fr
Hon. M. MATEUS Raul Paula
Des MAHONY
Lee SMITH
Jean-Jacques MATHAMALE
Boris ELANGA
Christian MVOGO
Guillaume LESCUYER
Guy Sam BELOUNE BIDNDDKIN
Louis CHETEN
Mikhail Nelson MVONGO NKENE
Paolo CERUTTI
Raphael TSANGA
Vincent BELIGNE
Cecile OTT
Elisa GRABBE
Emily UNWIN
Lora VERHEECKE
Martin TADOUM
Mamy RABOANARIJOANA
Willem van EEKELEN
Cyrille EKOUMOU
Carolle EONE
Elisabeth GELAS
Anne MIDDLETON
Carl FROSIO
Emo TCHOKONAKO
Arialle TCHINOU
Sam LAWSON
Raymond MUKAM
Edith JOHNSON
Iola LEAL
Germain MBOCK
Anastasie NGO GWEM
Badouin Michel
Ayisse Ambroise BERTRAND
Lucas BEMBOUNG EBOKONA
Rachel BUTLER
Dr. Timothée FOMETE
Dr. Germain DJONTU
Dider TAKOU
Mballa Bimi Jean ERNEST
Chef du délégation Union Européene en
Cameroun
CIDT
CIDT
CIEDD
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIFOR
CIRAD
Client Earth
Client Earth
Client Earth
Client Earth
COMIFAC
Consultant
Consultant
Consultant independent
CONSUPE
CRADIFF
Crelicam
Délégation Union Européene en
Cameroun
DGI
Earth Cameroon
Earthsight Investigations
ECOLO SANTE
EFI
EFI
ENEF
ERAIFT DRC
ERAIFT DRC
Etudiant
Etudiant
European Timber Trade Federation
Facilitateur
Facilitateur FLEGT en République de
Congo
FASA
FC COPAL SA'A/Lekié/Centre
d.mahony@wlv.ac.uk
lee.smith3@wlv.ac.uk
mathamale05@yahoo.fr
boriselanga@yahoo.fr
mvostian@yahoo.fr
g.lescuyer@cgiar.org
guysambeloune@yahoo.fr
b.cheten@cgiar.org
mikhailnelson@yahoo.fr
p.cerutti@cgiar.org
r.tsanga@cgiar.org
vincent.beligne@cirad.fr
ocecha77@yahoo.fr
egrabbe@clientearth.org
eunwin@clientearth.org
lverheecke@clientearth.org
willem.vaneekelen@gmail.com
ekoumoucyrille@gmail.com
alcajp@yahoo.fr
anne.middleton@crelicam.com
carl.frosio@europa.eeas.eu
emoanette@yahoo.fr
sam.platypus@gmail.com
mukamr@yahoo.fr
iola.leal@efi.int
gmbocky@gmail.com
ambrayissi@yahoo.fr
raichbutler@gmail.com
timfomete@rainbowenvironment.com
germain.djontu@theidlgroup.com
takoudidier@yahoo.fr
bimiernest@yahoo.fr
Cameroun
Mama MOUAMFON
Françoise VAN DE VEN
Patricia NDI NAKOUNA
Horline NJIKE
Serge MOUKOURI
Amélie NKONTCHOU
Anne Marie TEA
Christiane ZÉBAZÉ
Donald Jomho DJOSSI
Laurence WETE SOH
Luc MOUTONI
Nadege ESSOUNGOU
Rodrigue NGONZO
Sébastien TCHEBAYOU
Brad MULLEY
Delphin MAPAGA
Aristide CHACOCANI
Robinson DJEUKANI
Blandine OUOGUIA
Jacques DUPANLOUP
Annielaure MBUINI
Felix LILAKAKO MALIKUKA
Kirsten HEGENER
Martial NKOLO
Alexandra PARDAL
Reiner TEGTMEYER
Stanley EKOKO
Irène WABIWA
Guy NGUEIHANG
Andre BENA
Joseph Beutund BIKA NSOM
Charlotte KOUNA
Pierre KARIN
Samuel Nnah NDOBE
Aurelie AZAMBOU
Thomas BOBOAMA
Boris NOIRAUD
Joel BETIA
Aimé Franck GOMBA
Jonas NGOUHOUO POUFOUN
FCTV, National Programme Co-ordinator
FIB (Fédération des Industriels du Bois),
DRC
FIPCAM
FLAG
FLAG
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
FODER
Forest Monitor
Forestry in Gabon
GDA
GDA
GFBC
GFBC
GIC
GIZ
GIZ
GIZ
Global Witness
Global Witness
Greener Pastures
Greenpeace
GVF
Helveta
IGAC
Independent Consultant
Independent Consultant
Independent Consultant
Interpreter
Interpreter
JMN
JMN
JMN Consultant Sarl - BP
Labroatoire d'Economie Forestiere
(Nancy)
mouamfon_m@yahoo.fr
francoise_vandeven@hotmail.com
smoukouri@rem.org.uk
amelienkontchou@yahoo.fr
teaannemarie@yahoo.fr
zechristy@yahoo.fr
lwetesoh@forets-developpement.com
l.moutoni@forets-developpement.com
nj.essoungou@yahoo.fr
rtngonzo@yahoo.fr
setchebayou@yahoo.fr
bmulley@forestsmonitor.org
dmapagad@yahoo.fr
chafocani@yahoo.fr
djeukani_nj@yahoo.fr
ouoguia@yahoo.fr
jackournel@hotmail.fr
annielaurem@yahoo.fr
felix.lilakako@giz.de
martial.nkolo@giz.de
apardal@globalwitness.org
RTegtmeyer@globalwitness.org
kumbacomfor@yahoo.com
irene.wabiwa@greenpeace.org
guyngue1@yahoo.fr
andre.bena@helveta.com
giselkel@hotmail.com
lezac.iric@yahoo.fr
samnnah@yahoo.com
azam_aurelie@yahoo.com
tboboama@yahoo.fr
noiraudboris@yahoo.fr
bjoelino@yahoo.fr
aimefranck.gomba@jmnconsultant.fr
jngouhouopo@nancy-engref.inra.fr
Joachim KONDI
Sylvie ESSIANE OWONO
Arnaud ASSAM MIMBANG
Catherine BILONG
Constance ETUBO ALAH
Ernest MANGA
Jean KONGAPE
Jean-Claude ABINA
John Briand MINTYENE
Mouelas Derboise NGO
Niasan NOISE
Patrick TADJO
Rose Tyam MEDZIKE
Salomon Janvier BELINGA
Mme Sécretaire d'Etat
KOULSOUMI
Armand ZENGANG
MEF, République de Congo
MINEPAT
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
MINFOF
Jeanne OYONO
Tongo Yves MEYANGA
Julien NGO BELA
Louis Armand NDZANA ZOGO
Dieudonne TOMBOUBOU
Jacqueline NGO NJENGWES
Aurelie KAMGA KOUAMEN
Isaac NDOUMBE BEROCK
MINFOF
MINRESI
MINREX
MINREX
NOMEDJOH
OFIDEV
PFBC
Phd student at University of Douala
Point Focal APV- FLEGT en République
du Congo
Président de la Société Civile Seke
Banza, Bas Fleuve
Prevert Kokadouma
PSFE
PSRF
Radio OKAPI
RAFM
Rainbow Environment Consulting
REGEFOC
REJEFAC - AJVC
RRI
SAILD
SEFAC
SFID
SGS
SNDF
SNV
Adolphe NGASSEMBO
M. Thryphon NULBI wa NUMBI
Bertrand OTSIAM AKA'A
Maurice ABONO
Hamadan BOUBA
Emmanuel IMBANDA
Simeon Abé Eyélé
Romain KANA
Ghislain Serge EKOULITING
Tamoifo NKOM MARIE
René OYONO
Jean-Paul NGANTCHOU
Rene Samuel GWETH
Valery TCHEMEBE
Marcelin TANGA
Martin MBONGO
Joseph MOUGOU
joachimkondi@yahoo.fr
essiane_owono@yahoo.fr
cbilong10@yahoo.fr
etuboconstance@yahoo.com
mg.booby@yahoo.fr
kojav@yahoo.fr
mintyeneb@yahoo.fr
nanacheem@yahoo.com
niasan2004@yahoo.fr
tadjopatrick@yahoo.fr
rosetyam@yahoo.fr
salomonbelinga@gmail.com
MINFOF
MINFOF
meyanga_yves@yahoo.fr
lanzseau@yahoo.fr
kamgakouamen@yahoo.fr
beroch2003@yahoo.fr
angassembo@yahoo.fr
thryphonnumbi@yahoo.fr
abonomaurice@yahoo.fr
nawihamadan@yahoo.fr
imbanda@un.org
sim.ayele@yahoo.com
romainkana@yahoo.fr
ekouliting@yahoo.fr
tamoifo@gmail.com
philreneoyono@yahoo.fr
tchemebevalery@yahoo.fr
tanga.marcelin@sgs.com
mbongo_martin@yahoo.fr
JMougou@snvworld.org
Francis SANDJON
Richard MORA FOKA
Andrew SUTHERLAND
Clare BROGAN
Katie JAMES
Denis MAHONGHOL
Lucoun NYASSI TCHAKOUNTE
Achille DJEAGOU
Sophia CARODENUTO
David ENDANGA
Fomou Nyansi GHISLAIN AIME
Juliette JUL
Severine ETOUNOU
Yannick MOAMPISSA
Pamela TABI
Felijio KENGIMO DE SOUZA
Philène Corinne Aude UM NYOBE
Roger FOTSO
Emily WILSON
Nathalia DUKHAN
Romain CALAQUE
Duclaire MBOUNA
Paulin TADJOUNG
Lauren REDMORE
Sandra RATIARISON
Boouba HAMADOU
Carolle EONE
Désire LOUMOU
Francois BONDO
Herve MOUGNANO
Jacques Daniel NGUETSOP
Jocelyn DJOMO
Léon DIEUDONNE KONO
Marcelline NTYAME MBPOER
Natalie KANA
Thomas ONDOBO
Karen NTYAM
i
Société de Transformation du Bois de la
Kadey (STBK)
SRAFM
theIDLgroup
theIDLgroup
theIDLgroup
TRAFFIC
Transparency International
UNEP - GEF
Unique Land Use Consulting
Université de Yaoundé
Université de Yaoundé
Université de Yaoundé
Université de Yaoundé
Université de Yaoundé
Université de Yaoundé / Nature +
University of Yaounde
University of Yaounde
WCS
Well Grounded
Well Grounded
Wildlife Conservation Society
World Resources Institute
WWF
Zoological Society of London
Zoological Society of London
sawalof@yahoo.fr
andrew.sutherland@theidlgroup.com
clare.brogan@theidlgroup.com
katie.james@theidlgroup.com
denis.mahonghol@traffic.org
adjeagou@ra.org
Sophia.Carodenuto@unique-landuse.de
endangaguy@yahoo.fr
juliete88@yahoo.com
esvrine@yahoo.fr
moampissasomo@yahoo.fr
camille242003@yahoo.fr
felijiodesouza@yahoo.fr
phicoraude@yahoo.fr
rfotso@wcs.org
nathalia@well-grounded.org
rcalaque@wcs.org
dc_mbouna@yahoo.fr
tadjoungpaulin@yahoo.fr
lauren.redmore@zsl.org
Sandra.Ratiarison@zsl.org
nawihamadou@yahoo.com
alcafp@yahoo.fr
d_loumou@yahoo.fr
francbondo@hotmail.com
mougnanherve@yahoo.fr
daniel_nguetsop@yahoo.ca
djjocelyne@yahoo.fr
l.kono@yahoo.fr
mntyame@yahoo.fr
nataliekana@yahoo.fr
ondoboat@yahoo.com
karenntyam@yahoo.fr
Baka: indigenous people of the eastern region of Cameroon normally called the pygmies. They are very vulnerable.
Ii Bantou’s: indigenous people of the southern region of Cameroon, also normally called the pygmies. They are very vulnerable