Sierra Leone Environment Matters
Our Mission
To inspire and empower communities in Sierra Leone to protect and restore their environment through education, conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
Our Story
Sierra Leone is home to breathtaking rainforests, rich biodiversity, and resilient communities. But these natural treasures are under threat from deforestation, mining, and unsustainable farming practices. At Sierra Leone Environment Matters, we believe that protecting our environment begins with empowering the people who depend on it.
We are a volunteer-led movement, founded by Sierra Leoneans who have seen first-hand the cost of environmental destruction. Working hand in hand with rural communities, schools, and youth groups, we plant trees, restore forests, and promote climate-smart farming. From establishing tree nurseries to leading community-driven conservation projects, our work is built on education, local leadership, and a deep commitment to protecting the places we call home.
We are building a future where children grow up learning how to care for nature, where farmers thrive without destroying their forests, and where the voices of rural communities shape the decisions that affect them.
At SLEM, we tackle environmental challenges with a multi-faceted approach. Our work focuses on:
Nurturing Young Minds through Environmental Education
Our Environmental Journey (EJ) program reconnects young people with nature through hands-on learning, storytelling, and exploration. It nurtures a deep appreciation for the environment while inspiring lifelong stewardship. By engaging hearts and minds, we empower the next generation to protect and care for the world around them.
Sustainable Forest Management
We train forest-dependent communities in sustainable forest management practices that conserve biodiversity, prevent deforestation, and ensure the health of local ecosystems. These trainings also support long-term, nature-friendly livelihoods, helping communities use forest resources responsibly while protecting the environment for future generations.
Restoring Our Landscapes through Reforestation
We operate five community-based native tree nurseries, each producing up to 2,000 indigenous seedlings every six months. These nurseries serve as the backbone of our reforestation efforts, providing the trees we use to restore degraded landscapes, revive vital ecosystems, and fight climate change, one seedling at a time.
Making a Tangible Difference
Since 2020, over 3,500 students have participated in our Environmental Journey program
Since 2020, we have planted over 10,000 trees across Kenema City and surrounding villages
With support from the Global Landscapes Forum, we are set to restore 10 hectares of degraded land by planting 10,000 indigenous tree seedlings by the end of December 2025
We are currently partnering with 7 forest-dependent communities, empowering them to sustainably manage and protect their natural resources.
Be Part of the Change!
Protecting Sierra Leone’s environment is a shared responsibility and a collective opportunity. Whether you’re passionate about planting trees, supporting community initiatives, or championing environmental education, there’s a place for you with SLEM.