Project Update: April 2003

Data about medicinal plants collected from the Ngolo, Batanga and Bakoko zones were reviewed. The seed collection team intensified their activity leading to an increase in species potted at the nursery despite the rains. Other Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), boundary trees, social forestry trees, and ornamental trees were planted for sale to ensure sustainability of project. Some volunteers also cleared plot 1, which already has 1,250 planted seedlings. Also, the enumeration/identification team continued their work in the primary forest of the gemplasm plot.

As usual, weekly meetings were organised to ensure proper planning and evaluation of activities. Some 17 tour operators from South Africa also visited MEPLACON establishment and held a brief meeting with the staff. There was also an influx of high government officials working in our project area who seem to have interest in what we are doing owing to the fact that we are the first and only renowned NGO operating legally in this rich administrative division.