The local context
Since 2024, the village of Kounou, HUMY and A2M, our local partner, have been working together. The foundations have been laid for a reforestation, biodiversity conservation and community development project.
Each village has a Village Zone of Hunting Interest (ZOVIC). These ZOVICs allow small game hunting without encroaching on the reserve. They are managed by the village committees to which they belong. They manage and regulate hunting, fishing and timber harvesting.
A natural site of around 87 hectares has been made available to A2M/HUMY for the development of income-generating activities that reconcile agriculture and the preservation of biodiversity.
Project objectives
By turning the 87-hectare site into a wildlife conservation area, A2M/HUMY is working alongside the local population to :
- Slowing soil erosion thanks to forest cover.
- Preserving biodiversity.
- Raising awareness of the importance of conserving natural resources.
- Develop income-generating activities for local people.
The village of Kounou
In this region of southern Burkina Faso, Kounou is one of the last two villages before Ghana. It is located 5 km from the first Ghanaian village (Wuru). Kounou has an estimated population of 2,880.
The area selected for the project is located within the Kounou ZOVIC. Its vegetation and fauna are identical to that of the Nazinga reserve, to which it is incorporated as a «buffer zone».
Numerous mammals, including elephants, several species of monkey, as well as many species of reptiles and birds, can be found in the Kounou ZOVIC.
Already completed :
An initial planting phase was carried out in 2024. At the request of a group of village women, 100 trees were planted in various places of collective interest in Kounou:
- 50 trees at the CSPS (health centre)
- 10 trees at the primary school
- 10 trees at the youth centre
- 30 trees in private homes
Coming soon:
The year 2026 should see a more extensive planting, with 6,000 trees of different species.
A team of 2 technicians will be responsible for maintaining and monitoring the nursery.
Reforestation will take place in August 2026, with the help of the local population (including 40 women).