Science Education for the Conservation of Native Fungi & Habitats in Subsaharan Africa

This project aims to include fungi in biodiversity policies and conservation efforts and to find solutions for fungal conservation in Africa with sustainability and livelihood implications. The Permaculture Association, a UK partner in this project, plays a crucial role by providing practical expertise to promote regenerative agriculture and food forests. Gihan Soliman, a trustee of the Permaculture Association and member of the IUCN-CEC, integrates a holistic approach supporting indigenous social and cultural values, community self-empowerment, gender equity, and stewardship of local ecosystems. This all is considered as <i>in situ</i> conservation of biodiversity in general and fungi in particular. Alongside the science of conservation and this collaborative village action comes education aimed at drawing attention to two important issues: first, that native mycorrhizal fungi and the woodlands in which they grow are precious resources that need to be preserved; and second, that exotic tree plantations, where native fungi do not form associations, are more suitable sources of wood and charcoal. In the long run, Miombo woodland will regrow when young mycorrhizal trees are successfully transplanted. Meanwhile, making a good use of land - while woodlands re-generate, becomes crucial to livelihood. It takes a comprehensive design philosophy to build sustainable human homes and food systems by studying the patterns of natural ecosystems. In order to promote regenerative agriculture and food forests—a comprehensive strategy that supports indigenous social and cultural values, community self-empowerment, gender parity, and a sense of stewardship of local ecosystems—practical expertise from the Permaculture Association, the UK partner, is provided.