The Takieta Forest Joint Management Project is designed to support the emergence of joint management initiatives for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of the Takieta gazetted forest in eastern Niger. This forest of 6,720 hectares faces increasing stress from climatic and population factors. The proposed project will adopt an integrated land-use approach which addresses the management of forest resources within the wider context of other complementary land uses and will operate partially at the forest/farm interface. It will seek to reduce pressure on the forest by supporting land-use intensification and more sustainable livelihood approaches. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening local capacity in planning and management to facilitate greater involvement of local communities in the decentralisation processes currently favoured by Niger Government policy.

To stimulate and support the emergence of joint management initiatives for the Takieta forest reserve in order to provide greater livelihood security for communities dependent on forest resources.

Facilitate a partnership approach between the forestry department and local people. Support the emergence of joint management initiatives. Consolidate and build upon AFP activities. Initiate the rehabilitation of Takieta forest. Encourage replicability through capacity strengthening.