Cameroon Gender and Environment Watch (CAMGEW), a grassroots organisation founded in 2007, has risen from humble beginnings to international acclaim, recently being selected to join the prestigious Thriving Forests programme.
Launched at COP29 and funded by The Nature Recovery Project, Thriving Forests is an initiative aimed at protecting one million hectares of forest across Africa, Asia, and South America. CAMGEW’s participation in the programme is a major step for the organisation and brings critical support to its conservation efforts in Cameroon’s highlands.
According to James Berry, The Nature Recovery Project’s Head of Strategy, “The Nature Recovery Project’s objective to protect, restore and increase biodiversity in the threatened and vulnerable tropical rainforests has taken another step forwards in the launch of the first cohort of the Thriving Forests programme.”
CAMGEW, led by Director Wirsiy Emmanuel, has spent years working directly with communities around the Kilum-Ijim Forest. Their initiatives have ranged from running tree nurseries and training locals in sustainable practices, such as honey production and agroforestry, to establishing bee cooperatives and empowering women with business skills. These grassroots efforts have built a local economy rooted in conservation, creating alternative livelihoods that help communities protect rather than exploit their forest resources.
"Forests are on the frontline of our defence against climate change. We know that forest communities have the knowledge and motivation to protect their land, but often lack the resources and connections to do so. That’s why Thriving Forests will support outstanding organisations that work hand-in-hand with local people, growing their incomes and helping them protect these vital ecosystems on behalf of all of us.” Ashok Sinha Ashden CEO
Under the Thriving Forests programme, CAMGEW will receive not only funding but also expert support in areas like fundraising, impact communication, and governance. This support will help CAMGEW expand its programmes and strengthen its global visibility, making it a vital player in the worldwide movement for climate action and forest conservation.
“We are delighted to join Thriving Forests. This opportunity will allow us to deepen our impact, safeguard our lands, and share our story with a global audience. Our forest holds the promise of a sustainable future, and CAMGEW is proud to stand as a champion of this cause.” Wirsiy Emmanuel told the Hilltopvoices Newspaper
“Our ambitious Thriving Forests programme will bring immediate support to frontline organisations, but also set them on the path to winning further funding. But shifting mindsets is the ultimate goal: the climate finance sector as a whole must urgently move towards more inclusive, empowering conservation approaches." Ashok Sinha added
From planting over 110000 trees in the Kilum-Ijim forest in 2023, over 150000 across the Cameroon Highlands forest and creating a thriving honey industry to now joining forces with international conservation leaders, CAMGEW’s journey showcases how local action can drive meaningful global impact.
The full list of announced organisations includes:
Forêt Pour le Développement Intégral, Democratic Republic of Congo
Cameroon Gender and Environment Watch
Tropical Forest and Rural Development, Cameroon
Nsombou Abalghe-Dzal Association, Gabon
CERAF-NORD, Cameroon
Mbou Mon Tour, Democratic Republic of Congo
ECA Amarakaeri, Peru
Alam Sehat Lestari (ASRI), Indonesia