In News:

In a landmark achievement for global environmental conservation, Sierra Leone has secured its first UNESCO World Heritage Site with the inscription of the Gola-Tiwai Complex, comprising the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP). This milestone is the result of over three decades of environmental activism led by Tommy Garnett, founder of the Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA).

About the Gola-Tiwai World Heritage Site

Location

• Southern Sierra Leone, along the Moa River, near the Liberia border.

Components

1. Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary
   • Area: Only 12 sq. km
   • Biodiversity: Home to 11 primate species, including:
     • Western Chimpanzee (endangered)
     • Diana Monkey
     • *King Colobus Monkey
   • Serves as a biodiversity research hub and ecotourism destination in West Africa.
2. Gola Rainforest National Park
   • Sierra Leone’s largest tropical rainforest
   • Biodiversity Highlights:
     • Pygmy Hippopotamus
     • Critically Endangered African Forest Elephant
     • Numerous bird, insect, and plant species
   • Provides critical services such as:
     • Carbon sequestration
     • Climate regulation
     • Genetic biodiversity conservation

Ecological and Global Significance

• Biodiversity Hotspot: The Gola-Tiwai complex is one of the most biologically diverse areas in West Africa.
• Sustainable Development Model:
  • Combines community engagement, scientific research, and eco-tourism.
  • Sets a precedent for post-conflict environmental restoration.
• Global Climate Importance: The rainforest acts as a carbon sink, playing a role in mitigating climate change.
• Cultural-Ecological Linkages: Local communities depend on forests for livelihoods, traditions, and spiritual practices.

Geographical Context: Sierra Leone

Capital: Freetown

• Located on a peninsula with one of the world’s largest natural harbours.

Neighbouring Countries: Guinea (North and East), Liberia (Southeast), Atlantic Ocean (Southwest)

Key Geographical Features:

• Mountains:
  • Mount Bintimani (Loma Mansa) – Highest peak at 1,948 m (6,391 ft)
  • Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, Kambui Schists
• Rivers:
  • Major rivers: Moa, Sewa, Mano, Rokel
  • Originate in Fouta Djallon highlands in Guinea
• Coastal Plains: Include mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands
• Climate: Tropical with high rainfall and Harmattan winds in dry seasons

Natural Resources:

• Rich in diamonds, gold, rutile, and bauxite
• Economy based on mining and agriculture