COMMUNITIES FORESTRY
NETWORK-CFN

Sustainable
Agriculture

Environmental
Sustainability

Biodiversity
Conservation

Social
Development

PROFILE OF THE FOUNDER

Communities Forestry and Social Development International was by founded Mr Anthony Aidoo Sr. in 1994. He founded Communities Forestry and Social Development International on three thematic foundations; forest conservation, sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Communities Forestry and Social Development International, now rebranded as Communities Forestry Network embodies a transformative shift in its mission and identity. Originally established as an organization focused on the intersection of forestry management and social development, the evolution to a network signifies a broader and more collaborative approach towards sustainable community-based forestry practices. The foundation of this network lies in recognizing the intrinsic link between healthy forests and vibrant communities.

By placing communities at the center of forest management initiatives, the organization acknowledges the invaluable knowledge, traditions, and livelihoods rooted within local populations. This ethos underscores the belief that sustainable forestry is not just about preserving trees but nurturing entire ecosystems in harmony with human needs.

The transition to the Communities Forestry Network signifies a commitment to fostering connections, both within and beyond traditional boundaries. As a network, it serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and advocacy. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, including community leaders, conservationists, policymakers, and researchers, the network catalyzes collaborative efforts toward shared goals.

At its core, Communities Forestry Network operates on principles of inclusivity, empowerment, and resilience. By empowering communities to take ownership of their forest resources, the network enables them to become stewards of their sustainable development. This empowerment extends beyond environmental conservation to encompass social and economic dimensions, fostering resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change and economic volatility.

The rebranding reflects not only a shift in name but also a reimagining of purpose and impact. Communities Forestry Network aspires to be more than just an organization; it aims to be a dynamic ecosystem where ideas flourish, partnerships thrive, and positive change cascades across landscapes and communities. Through its collective efforts, the network seeks to inspire a new paradigm of forestry management—one that is rooted in collaboration, sustainability and shared prosperity for generations to come.

CFN ACTIVITIES

Sustainable agriculture

The organization works with farmers to promote sustainable farming practice that reduce the use of harmful chemicals and improve soil health. The approach helps to increase crop yields while also reducing the environmental impact of farming.

Cocoa production

CFN has a mission to promote sustainable agriculture, improve food security and develop sustainable cocoa production practices. The organisation was re-incorporated in September 2022 with a renewed commitment to its core values and goals

Agro-forestry

The organization aims to restore degraded ecosystems and promote sustainable land use practices. Through agroforestry, CFN also helps farmers grow crops alongside trees, which helps to improve soil quality, increase biodiversity, and sequester carbon.