Project Calao

Afforestation & Reforestation

Plantation, forest restoration and biodiversity conservation in Côte d’Ivoire

The Calao project is a comprehensive landscape restoration initiative combining ecological restoration with sustainable economic development. Spanning 35,000 hectares across the N'zi Voluntary Nature Reserve and the Mafa massif (regrouping the 4 classified forests of Mafa, Besse-Boca, Laka and Fetekro), the project addresses severe land degradation through a multi-faceted approach that integrates native forest restoration, sustainable timber production, and agroforestry systems. The project plans on restoring more than 10,000 hectares of degraded savannah with a gradient of planting densities, 8,000 hectares of teak and gmelina plantation in heavily degraded areas, and 500 hectares of shea trees to support community shea butter processing. Working in partnership with the N'zi Wildlife Conservation Foundation and SODEFOR, the project provides employment and economic activity in the region while protecting and enhancing habitat within private forest reserves and classified forests.

Activities

Over 10,000 hectares of degraded savannah restored using a gradient of planting densities adapted to local conditions and biodiversity objectives

8,000 hectares of teak and gmelina planted in heavily degraded areas, providing renewable timber resources while restoring forest cover (initiated in 2023)

500 hectares of shea trees planted to support community-led shea butter processing and enhance local livelihoods

Collaborative implementation with local communities ensuring benefit-sharing and active participation in restoration activities

Protection and enhancement of habitat within the private forest reserve and classified forests

Impact & evolution

35,000
hectares

2,300,000
CO2e emissions sequestrated over 40y

10
IUCN-threatened species protected

Standards

Further information

Start year of operations

2023

First credit issuance

2028

Partnership with

hummingbirds is partnering with the N'Zi River Lodge and the N'zi Wildlife Conservation Foundation to develop and certify the project. The national forest development company (SODEFOR) provides technical expertise and support for timber plantations. Local communities are integral partners in both plantation establishment and ongoing management.

Sustainable Development Goals

Enhanced income opportunities through agroforestry, timber value chains, and community shea butter production

>500 community members expected to have improved skills and/or knowledge resulting from training provided as part of project activities

60% of women employed in shea harvesting and processing facilities

Employment generation through timber production and community-led shea butter processing enterprises

Sustainable timber production creating renewable resources while restoring forest cover

Carbon sequestration through restoration of 10,000+ hectares of degraded savannah and sustainable plantations

Protection of classified forests and expansion of forest cover in critical N'zi biodiversity areas

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