csrreporters 
n a bold effort to safeguard the fragile Taylor Creek Forest while promoting sustainable regional development, Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited (formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited), in partnership with the Bayelsa State Government and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), has intensified the implementation of the Gbaran-Biodiversity Action Plan.
Spanning 23 forest-dependent communities across four clans Okordia, Zarama, Biseni, and Tarakiri in Yenagoa and Sagbama Local Government Areas, the initiative is designed to conserve biodiversity, empower local communities, and enhance regional food security through sustainable livelihoods.
Central to the programme is a cadre of 46 community forest rangers, trained in forest patrols, governance, tree nursery establishment, and sustainable forest management. To date, these rangers have raised over 16,500 indigenous tree seedlings, now planted to restore degraded areas, strengthen ecological resilience, and mitigate climate change impacts.
Beyond reforestation, the initiative equips communities with alternative livelihood opportunities that directly enhance food production and economic stability. More than 150 beneficiaries have received starter packs for aquaculture, beekeeping, livestock rearing, and cassava cultivation, enabling households to diversify income streams while reducing reliance on harmful forest practices like indiscriminate logging and bush burning.
Bayelsa State Commissioner for Environment, Ebi Ololo, emphasised the long-term benefits of the initiative: “This project nurtures responsibility and resilience in our communities. By empowering rangers and supporting alternative livelihoods, we are safeguarding Taylor Creek Forest and strengthening regional food systems for generations to come.”
In addition, the state government has suspended all logging activities, underscoring its commitment to preserving forests as a vital regional asset.
NCF’s Director of Technical Programmes, Adedamola Ogunsesan, highlighted the synergy between conservation and local prosperity, “By restoring the forest and supporting sustainable livelihoods, we are demonstrating that ecological protection and economic growth can advance hand in hand.”
Charles Akhideno, Biodiversity Lead at Renaissance Africa Energy, reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment, “Our Biodiversity Action Plan is about safeguarding the environment while enhancing community resilience. Together with government and local stakeholders, we are shaping sustainable growth that benefits both people and nature.”
The eight year programme is already generating tangible results: improved food security, diversified household incomes, and strengthened regional ecological assets. By combining conservation with sustainable economic opportunities, the Gbaran Biodiversity Action Plan is shaping a model for environmentally responsible growth in Bayelsa State
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