Empowering Forest Communities: How PADIC-Africa Is Driving Sustainable Change in Cross River State
Creating Lasting Change in Rural Communities
At PADIC-Africa, we believe that sustainable development begins with people. For over two decades, we’ve partnered with rural communities in Cross River State, Nigeria, to co-create solutions that empower local populations, promote environmental sustainability, and build economic resilience.
Our Mission
We tackle the root causes of vulnerability in forest-dependent communities. Through integrated programs, we:
- Reduce vulnerability
- Build resilience
- Promote responsible natural resource management
- Foster sustainable livelihoods and environmental stewardship
Our goal is to ensure both people and ecosystems thrive for generations.
Who We Are
PADIC-Africa is a registered charity with over 20 years of experience working in agrarian, forest-dependent communities across Cross River State. Our work is rooted in collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community-led change.
We operate from:
- Calabar (Head Office)
- Edondon & Buancho (Field Offices)
Our team:
- 6 full-time staff
- Over 100 trained community volunteers (mainly Eco-guards)
What We Do
- Sustainable Forest Management – Helping communities protect their forests and enhance governance structures.
- Livelihood Development – Introducing agroforestry, eco-enterprises, and sustainable farming methods to improve income and reduce forest pressure.
- Advocacy and Awareness – Using media and public forums to raise awareness about forest conservation and climate change.
- Research and Monitoring – Mapping, monitoring, and supporting biodiversity conservation.
Who Are Our Targets?
We work with 35,000+ individuals, primarily:
- Women
- Youths
- Non-timber forest gatherers
- Farmers
Our work covers areas like Afi forest, Ekuri, Iko, and Okpon. These communities help manage 80,000+ hectares of forest, many adjacent to national reserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
How We Help
- Strengthening community governance and administration
- Training and retraining Eco-guards
- Building long-term institutional resilience
Key Partners
- Cross River National Park
- Cross River Forestry Commission
- University of Calabar
- Nigeria Conservation Foundation
- Iko Esai community leaders
- NGOs and youth/women’s groups
Our Impact
- Restoration of 2,000+ hectares of forest
- Distribution of improved seedlings to farmers
- Creation of bee farms, nurseries, and women-led cooperatives
- Registration of trained groups with government agencies
