West Africa: Meet the People Safeguarding the Sacred Forests and Lagoons of West Africa

Feb 5, 2023 | Ricci Shryock, NPR
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In areas throughout West African countries such as Liberia, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau, communities have designated biodiversity hotspots, including forests and lagoons, as sacred. They believe no price can be placed on the plants and animals that live there. Many are forbidden from entering the areas, where traditional rites of passage and justice ceremonies take place. This system has served as a conservation tool respected by these communities for generations.