Vulnerability of Forest Heritage in Guinea: Views Indigenous People on Mitigating the Decline Sacred Forests Manon Country

Considered a symbol of the cultural identity of indigenous peoples, sacred forests are severely degraded in the Manon region. This is because they are successively falling victim to urban expansion and other economic imperatives. In addition to the consequences of this vulnerability (which is difficult to reverse), we are also witnessing the decline of numerous plant and animal species that were once strictly protected. This evidence raises the following research question: What is the opinion of indigenous peoples regarding the vulnerability and future of sacred forests in Manon country? The study aims to explore the biological diversity of sacred forests in order to develop a tool to mitigate their decline. Socio-ecological surveys using questionnaires and direct observations were used to collect data. A total of 17 sacred forests (52.94% of which are designated for educational purposes) were identified in four Manon villages. These legendary areas have been subject to restricted exploitation of plant species. Each identified forest is governed by a ritual charter ranging from restrictions to a total ban on entry.

Pagina's: 60, Paperback, Our Knowledge Publishing