Restoration and Innovative
Management of the Ondo Sacred Forest of Pobè
Date : June 2024 - April 2025 | Place : Pobè, Plateau
Restore, preserve, and enhance: the Ookpo sacred forest is reborn in Pobè.
The Ookpo sacred forest, a spiritual and ecological jewel of the city of Pobè, is now restored to its former glory thanks to an ambitious project led by CACD-ONG with the support of HERITAGE and the Mellon Foundation. This ancestral site, cradle of the goddess Ondo and a symbol of the identity of the kingdom of Pobè, is now the subject of unprecedented participatory management involving local communities, dignitaries, women, and youth.
Goals
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Document the tangible and intangible heritage of the Ookpo Sacred Forest
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Develop a community management plan with local stakeholders
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Promote intergenerational and interreligious dialogue around the site
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Carry out ecological restoration and cultural enhancement activities
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Create an advocacy platform for official and sustainable recognition of the site
Results
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Community reappropriation of the forest
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Cultural and ecological enhancement of the sacred space
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Strengthened involvement of women and youth in heritage management
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New tourist attraction for Pobè (tours, research, films, Vodun Days)
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More than 1000 trees planted
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10 tour guides trained
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30 radio programs broadcast at a national and regional level
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Creation of a pilot model of local governance that can be replicated in other municipalities
PARTICIPATORY ANALYSIS
A workshop with 67 participants identified the site's challenges and collectively developed an inclusive management plan.
A committee representing the community, authorities and NGOs has been established to oversee the sustainable management of the site.
INSTALLATION OF A MULTISTAKEHOLDER COMMITTEE
1170 plants (including iroko, ceiba and campeche) were planted to restore the forest ecosystem.
REFORESTATION
The huts housing the deities were renovated, whitewashed and decorated with the names of the deities and cultural symbols.
PAINTING & DECORATION
Activities
INSTALLATION OF A PLAQUE
A plaque in French, English and Yoruba has been installed at the entrance to the forest to inform visitors.
More than 30 programs were broadcast on local and national radio stations to inform and raise awareness among the population.
RADIO BROADCASTS
TOUR GUIDE TRAINING
Ten youth were trained in guiding techniques and promoting the cultural and natural heritage of Pobè.
DIGITAL CAMPAGINS
Regular social media posts have increased the site's visibility nationally and internationally.
Community Feedback
"This project has restored the forest, but also our dignity. It proves that our traditions have value."
— Dominique IDONIYI, President of the GBOBANIYI Association
"The sacred forest of Ookpo has regained its grandeur, and our people, its memory."
— His Majesty King ADE KIWO OTE BOLE ASSIGBO ELE II
"Today, the commune of Pobè is a hub of ecotourism, a vibrant cultural center."
— Wilfrid FACHINAN, Tourism Focal Point at Pobè Town Hall
