Abstract
Over the last decade, Togo has seen the emergence of several community forestry initiatives. This study contributes to sustainable community forest (CF) management in Togo. More specifically, it aims at mapping and characterising community forestry initiatives in Togo. The analysis is based on literature review and semi-structured interviews with prefectoral/regional environmental directors and CF managers. Overall, 170 CFs were identified, covering 65 719 ha. The Central region has the largest number (33.1%) and accounts for almost half of the area (49.0%). The Savannahs region contains several small CFs, most of which are less preserved. Since their creation, 43 CFs have been registered with the Ministry of the Environment. They are located in all regions of Togo. An organisational diagnosis of the management committees is needed. Initiatives to rehabilitate these CFs should be supported and encouraged. Helping the communities of these CFs to diversify their income sources would also help reduce pressure on their resources.
Keywords: Community Forest, spatial distribution, forest restauration, Togo