Banjul, The Gambia, 1 December 2025 — Africa’s top forestry and wildlife authorities yesterday opened the 25th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC25) and the 9th African Forestry and Wildlife Week (AFWW9) in Banjul, issuing strong calls for accelerated continental action to confront climate change, forest loss and threats to wildlife.
The week-long gathering, hosted by the Government of The Gambia in partnership with Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has drawn senior policymakers, scientists, UN agencies and conservation practitioners from across Africa.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the FAO Director-General, the FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa, Dr. Abebe Haile-Gabriel, commended The Gambia’s leadership in forest restoration and sustainable landscape management. He said FAO will continue supporting countries through forest monitoring, mangrove protection, the Great Green Wall and community conservation programmes.
But he warned that the continent is under intensifying climate pressure.
“Africa needs innovative financing, stronger policies and coordinated regional action to safeguard its natural resources,” he said. “This session carries a responsibility for us to shape a more climate-resilient future.”
Ms. Mandisa Mashologu, Resident Representative of UNDP The Gambia, said climate impacts are already disrupting water security, food supplies and livelihoods across the continent. She underscored UN support for early-warning systems, disaster-risk preparedness, renewable energy and ecosystem restoration.
Representing the outgoing AFWC Chairperson, Tanzania’s Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, Vice-Chair Mr. Dieudonne Sita applauded The Gambia for hosting the session after Mali stepped aside. He said the theme, innovative and inclusive management of Africa’s Forest and wildlife resources, demands stronger collaboration and knowledge-sharing among countries.
He added that resolutions from the Banjul meeting will guide Africa’s position in global forest agenda and preparations for the 2026 FAO Regional Conference for Africa.
Proceedings on Day One featured opening statements and high-level appeals for Africa to urgently scale up action to protect forests, wildlife and vulnerable communities.
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