An executive body that will run the cluster platform, Forest Management Committee (FMC) of villages in the Tofala Hill Wildlife Sanctuary (THWS) for two years was elected, August 2, 2015.
By Enokenwa Allen Tabi
The election which took place at Bechati, the headquarters of the Tofala Hill Wildlife Sanctuary brought together three members each of the eight village forest management committees (VFMC) existing in the sanctuary; Nkong, Bangang, Besali, Bechati, Banti, Folepi, Egumbo and Fussongu.
Before the election proper, the THWS Conservator, Ngwabuh Bernard Anukabuh Itef, called on the representatives of each VFMC to elect persons who are capable of running the cluster platform effectively.
The election brought on board the following; President: Fon Nkemtaji Jerry, Secretary: Fonkeng Stephen, Treasurer: Njukang Mirable, and Advisers: Fon Akum Ferdinand, Tankoh Solomon, Chief Fonkwette Denis, Jong David, Nchufor Benedict.
The cluster platform will serve as an information and communication hub for conservation and development issues around the Tofala Hill Wildlife Sanctuary.
It will contribute to improved communication between the villages themselves as well as between the sanctuary management and the villages.
Together with the sanctuary service, the cluster platform is responsible for the coordination and planning of the Collaborative Management Activities (CMA) within Council Conservation Zone, discussion of potential conflicts concerning sanctuary management and might decide to discuss conservation related issues.
The deliberations of the cluster platform will lead to an agreement on the half yearly work plan as well as a forum for assessing achievements in its implementation.
