LIBERIA Liberia Forest Sector Project (P154114, TFA2427), Second Implementation Support Mission and REDD+ Readiness Preparation Support (P124073, TF12530 and TFA0929) Mission March 8 - 22, 2017 and April 3 - 21, 2017 Aide-Memoire . INTRODUCTION AND MISSION OBJECTIVES 1. A World Bank second implementation support mission'2 for the Liberia Forest Sector Project (LFSP) was conducted in Monrovia, Liberia between March 8 to 22, 2017; and April 3 to 21, 2017. 2. This Aide Memoire summarizes the mission's key findings and recommendations. The draft aide memoire was discussed at mission wrap up meetings on March 22, 2017 and April 21, 2017. 3. The mission would like to express its sincere appreciation to Hon. Alvin E. Attah, Sr. Deputy Minister, Economic Management, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Hon. Harrison S. Karnwea, Sr., outgoing Managing Director, FDA; Hon. Darlington S. Tuagben, incoming Managing Director, FDA; Hon. Anya Vohiri, Executive Director, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Dr. Cecil T.O. Brandy, Chairman, Land Authority; Boiyan K. Kpakolo, Assistant Minister, Mineral Exploration and Environmental Research, Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy (MLME); Mr. Samuel Summerville, Assistant Minister Planning and Development; staff of the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA); Mr. Saah A. David, Jr., National REDD+ Project Coordinator; and the entire FDA team for their participation, hospitality, and for the fruitful discussions during the mission. The full list of persons met is in Annex 1. 1. 1 The mission was led by Ms. Neeta Hooda (Co-Task Team Leader), supported by George Ledec (Lead Ecologist), Gerardo Segura (Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist), Nicholas Meitaki Soikan (Social Development Specialist), and Nalin Kishor (Governance Expert). Mission was supported in country by Sekou Kamara (Environment Specialist), Zinnah Mulbah (Environmental Specialist), Charles Taylor (Procurement Specialist), Saidu Dani Goje (Financial Management Specialist), Abimbola Adubi (Agricultural Specialist) and Yeyea Gloria Kehicay Nasser (Team Assistant); and remotely supported by Paola Agostini (Task Team Leader), Sachiko Kondo (Natural Resources Management Specialist), Marco van der Linden (MRV Specialist Consultant) and Yesmeana Butler (Program Assistant). Mr. Arild Skesdsmo, Senior Advisor, Forest and Climate, from the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment joined the mission. 2. ' The objectives of the mission were: (i) Overall review of implementation progress with the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and other implementing partners, including disbursements; (ii) Implementation support to FDA's interventions in strengthening management of the Project-supported Protected Areas (PAs) and technical studies of Proposed PAs; (iii) Support to the application of environmental and social safeguards under the Project; (iv) Implementation support to FDA's interventions in forest communities to conduct a socio economic and resource assessment surveys, community forest demarcation, and development of forest management plans in selected communities; and (v) Support to the review of the strengthened regulatory and institutional arrangements especially by (a) helping initiate the strategic planning and staffing exercise for the FDA; (b) assessing the staff and technical requirements of the FDA field offices through field visits; (c) identifying short-term skill enhancement needs for FDA and EPA staff and developing a strategic plan for their delivery; and (d) developing a plan for curriculum improvement for the principal technical and graduate forestry institutions (Forestry Training Institute (FTI), University of Liberia (UL), Nimba Community College and Methodist Episcopal University). I ILKEY FINDINGS Liberia Forest Sector Project 4. Overall Progress. Overall, project implementation is progressing reasonably well and implementation progress is rated as 'moderately satisfactory'. The project was formally launched on March 14, 2017, in Monrovia. Six key areas are identified for attention with a view to maintaining implementation progress on track: (i) Changes in FDA Management; (ii) Fund flow and financial management; (iii) RIU Capacity; (iv) Implementation and management capacity of FDA; (v) Disclosure of documentation specially those pertaining to CFMA process; and (vi) Sustainability of investments post project. (i) Changes in FDA Management. Mission was informed that current Managing Director, Mr. Harrison Karnwea had submitted his resignation to the President of Liberia. Mission expressed its gratitude to Hon. Karnwea for his leadership on this project during preparation and early implementation. Mr. Darlington Tuagben, formerly a Deputy Managing Director, Operations, was appointed as Managing Director on April 10, 2017. (ii) Fund flow and financial management. The Project work plan and procurement plan for the first 18 month period was finalized and approved in December 2016 after minor delays. This should be updated to include the first two quarters of 2018 by June 15, 2017. The Designated Account is operational. The mission was inforned that new modalities for managing project operations accounts, introduced portfolio wide by the MFPD to reduce fiduciary risks, have posed challenges for the Project Implementing Entities (PIEs) in accessing the funds in a timely manner. This has resulted in some delays in initiating proposed activities for this period. Joint discussions between FDA, PFMU and WB have led to an agreement on how the operational accounts of each PIE will be managed. It is expected that operational accounts of all PlEs will become operational by June 30, 2017. Government expressed importance of fiduciary checks even though it might result in some delays in meeting deliverables for the first year of Project implementation. Mission emphasized that FDA staff especially those based in the field should be informed that Project funds can be made available to undertake activities in accordance with the annual work plan and that implementation of activities planned for FY2017 should be initiated without further delay. (iii) Implementation and management capacity of FDA. The mission team considered that take-up and ownership of project components by the technical departments of FDA has been below expectation, which also puts additional stress on the REDD+ Implementation Unit (RIU). Measures are needed to be taken by the FDA Management to ensure that technical managers refer to the agreed work plan for their respective areas of responsibility and proactively reach out to the RIU with plans for execution of agreed activities. Mission team facilitated two trainings during the mission on project management and on monitoring and evaluation respectively for FDA and PIE staff (Details in section on 'Other findings'). Capacities for project management and coordination with FDA departments and other PIEs needs to be strengthened without delay. (iv) RIU Capacity. The capacity of REDD Implementation Unit (RIU) needs to be strengthened further. Currently, the RIU includes a Project Coordinator, a Policy Coordinator, two Procurement Specialists, a Communications and Engagement Specialist, and a Project Accountant. Mission noted that hiring of M&E Specialist is at a contract negotiation stage. Hiring of remaining consultants to form part of the RIU (safeguards specialists (Social and Environmental), and a team assistant) needs to be completed. Mission discussed trainings for project management, and reporting to ensure clarity in roles and responsibilities in RIU. During the October 2016 mission of the WB, the RIU had made a request for recruitment of a Project Officer to support the Project Coordinator for seamless flow of information, reporting, and flow of funds. Delays have been experienced in the past few months including submission of reports, and review of technical documents, and the mission recommends that recruitment of additional support in the form of a Project Officer would help to bridge this gap. It was agreed that ToRs for this support will be submitted by April 30, 2017. 2 (v) Disclosure of Documents. Mission recalled that issue of public disclosure of documents was flagged in earlier missions. Mission acknowledged that some progress is being made in redesigning of FDA website. However, information and documents on activities being supported by the project are not available on the website. Mission recommends that the FDA explores opportunities to systematize disclosure of documents pertaining to progress on Community Forest Management Agreement (CFMA) process and activities on protected areas. For example, a dashboard that demonstrates progress on CFMA in project communities against key milestones and is updated regularly is critical to ensure transparency. FDA Management agreed to have its website functional with requisite information on first communities posted by May 15, 2017. (vi) Sustainability of investments post project. Mission brought to the attention of the FDA Management the issue of sustainability of investments in human resources, equipment and infrastructure which is closely related to the number of staff employed and their ability to efficiently fulfill their duties. The Project is supporting recruitment of experts/ technicians to support implementation. As noted in the Project Appraisal Document (PAD), it was agreed as part of the project design that these personnel would be integrated as regular staff during the project period. Mission reiterated that the FDA should begin strategic planning including budgetary implications and measures that will be taken to ensure that recurrent operational costs including maintenance and regular renewal of equipment and infrastructure especially at the regional level be absorbed by FDA. Mission team together with FDA held meeting with the MFDP and the longer term sustainability issues were discussed with the Deputy Minister of Finance. Hon. Deputy Minister suggested that FDA consider a phased approach to meeting its needs for operational and other costs. It was agreed that FDA will submit a proposal reflecting its budgetary needs for the med ium and long term in view of its overall strategic vision and advance the discussions. FDA will update the World Bank task team on follow up made with the MFDP on this issue. 5. Budget Support Operation. In December 2016, Norway made a new commitment under the Liberia Forest Landscape Single Donor Trust Fund which will finance a supplementary general budget support operation (P163164) with a grant component of US$4,360,000. This is currently under processing by the Macroeconomics team of the World Bank, with expected delivery around June-July 2017. Mission discussed with MFDP the opportunity to link this with the point above on Long term sustainability of the project investment, and to meet longer term strategic staffing objectives of the FDA. REDD+,Readiness Preparation Support 6. Completion Reporting for Original Grant (TF12530). Mission discussed the finalization of completion report for the original grant (US$3.6 million). The grant has been fully disbursed. It was agreed that FDA will submit completion report by April 10, 2017 [report was submitted with some delay, in May 2017]. 7. Progress under Additional Funding Grant (TFA0929). Mission expressed its concern with the overall slow progress with implementation of activities under Additional Funding. Recruitments are pending and contracting for work on MRV is still work in progress. II.CONTEXT Liberia Forest Sector Project S. Project Development Objective (PDO). The PDO is improved management of, and increased benefit sharing in, targeted forest landscapes. 9. LFSP Background. The LFSP is financed by the Liberia Forest Landscape Single Donor Trust Fund grant of US$36.7 million. This Trust Fund was established between the Government of Norway and 3 the World Bank under the Letter of IntentO signed between Norway and the Republic of Liberia. The project was approved on April 19, 2016, the Grant Agreement and the Project Agreement were signed on April 27, 2016, and the grant became effective on August 30, 2016. There is one disbursement condition for disbursements under Category 3 to Land Authority. Current grant disbursements stand at US$3 million (8 percent). 10. LFSP Components. The LFSP has four components, namely: Component 1: Strengthened Regulatory and Institutional Arrangements for Implementation of REDD+ (US$8 million); Component 2: Strengthened Capacity for Management of Targeted Forest Landscapes (US$23.8 million); Component 3: Forest Monitoring Information System (US$2.3 million); and Component 4: Project Management, Monitoring, and Communication (US$3.4 million). REDD+ Readiness Preparation Support I1. REDD+ Readiness. The REDD+ Readiness Phase in Liberia is financed by the original REDD+ Readiness grant (TF12530, US$3.6 million, closed on November 30, 2016 (fully disbursed)) and an additional funding grant (TFA0929, US$5 million, approved on September 2, 2015, closing on January 15, 2019, US$854,440 or 17. percent disbursed). The Formulation grant of US$200,000 closed on January 31, 2011. The REDD+ Preparation Support PDO is to carry oat a consultative and quantitative analysis of the different land use options for development of the national REDD+ Strategy for Liberia, to be approved by the National Climate Change Steering Committee. Strategy has since been presented to NCCSC at its meeting in March 2017. IV.OTHER MISSION FINDINGS LFSP 12. Progress towards Achievement of the PDO. Mission rates the progress towards achievement of the PDO as Satisfactory. 13. Overall Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening. As part of assessing the needs for capacity building and institutional strengthening, the Mission held detailed discussions with the RIU and took stock of the status of activities related to component I of the LFSP. The Mission visited the FDA office in Greenville (Sinoe County), the Region I office in Tubmanburg, and the Forest Training Institute (FTI) campus in Tubmanburg (Bomi County). The mission also organized a one-day training activity on monitoring challenges in the context of the Results Framework for the LFSP, and training for PIEs on Project Management. COMPONENT 1. 14. Support to the Strategic Planning Unit (SPU), preparation of a S Year Strategic Plan for FDA. It was agreed that an international consultant is being hired to take the lead (with support from the local consultant) for the preparation of the draft 5 year Strategic plan in consultation with FDA. The Mission guided the RIU to develop and harmonize the TORs for the local and international consultants, including identifying their individual lead and joint responsibilities, for the deliverables. The local consultant has commenced work in May 2017 and would submit a draft SPU assessment report by June 30*. The international consultant is expected to be on board by mid-June, and the draft 5 Year Strategic Plan to be submitted by November 30". This task is considered as high priority and the Mission urged the RIU to ensure that the recruitment of the international consultant, and the submission of the report be completed 3 https://www.regjeringen.no/contentassets/b8b93faO3bda4ac93dO65d26d64075b/letterofintentliberia.pdf 4 as per the discussed schedule. The TORs for these consultants have since been submitted by FDA for No Objection to the World Bank. 15. Support to the Forestry Training Institute (FTI) and capacity building through on-the-job- training. (a) In accordance with discussions with the FDA-MD, the Mission agreed not to spread the project resources too thin, but to focus primarily on supporting FTI, since that is considered as the main source of staff for middle-level foresters for the country. A needs assessment, with its major focus on curriculum improvement, was done in 2009/10. Discussions with the Director of the FTI and a tour of the campus clearly indicates the importance of considering additional issues such as the upgrading of facilities (buildings, classrooms, students hostels, training labs, etc.), and improving the quality of the teaching faculty. Thus, the Mission suggests that the 2009/10 curriculum assessment report be revisited to take stock of achievements, and a short report on the remaining critical needs for FTI be prepared, if necessary. RIU should lead on this in house, with a view to in close consultation with FTI and complete it by September 2017. (b) The Mission sees provision of support to recruiting graduating seniors from the forestry institutes, as apprentices to assist with Project implementation, as an important capacity-building step. Thus, as a follow up to the discussions of the October 2016 mission, the Mission agreed with RIU to recruit up to 12 fresh graduates, aligned to the proposal of recruitment ofjunior staff in the PAD, for a duration of 12 months. The first batch of apprentices will be drawn from graduating students from the University of Liberia (UL) and FTI. They will largely support the implementation of project activities and therefore most apprentices will be located in the fHeld, to work closely with front-line field staff of the FDA. A draft announcement for recruitment has been prepared and is expected that the RIU will finalize it by May 30, 2017. It is envisaged to select the first batch and place them in the field by the end of October 2017. The Mission suggests that the RIU prepare a budget for this activity (based on number of apprentices to be recruited, their stipend and other costs, training expenses, etc.), and submit to the Bank for a "no- objection", by June 30'h, 2017. 16. Capacity building needs and training activities for EPA staff. The mission followed up on the October 2016 mission discussions on the EPA needs for staff training, related to their responsibilities in the implementation of the LFSP. EPA has now submitted a list of areas which they consider priority for training. The Mission will work with the RIU, with support from EPA to further flesh out these priority areas and identify specific training activities to fulfill these needs. It is expected that a detailed program of training, including a budget, will be finalized by June 30*. 17, Training Workshop on Monitoring and Evaluation. A one-day training workshop was organized (on April 19, at the World Bank office) for the focal points and key technical staff from the PIEs, to discuss the fundamental concepts of M&E and the indicators and targets in the Project Results Framework (RF), and responsibilities of the PIEs in the context of their MOUs. The workshop had 25 participants. Participants recognized the importance of using the Theory of Change as a strategic planning tool for their specific activities under the project components. Challenges related to the measurement of the indicators in the RF were discussed, particularly in the context of varying capacities for M&E, across the PIEs. The RIU is finalizing the hiring of a dedicated M&E specialist, and indicated that the specialist would work closely with the PIEs (including with their respective M&E specialists) to ensure that the RF reporting requirements were adequately addressed. The workshop was seen to be useful in improving the understanding of the MOUs, the project RF, and in promoting collaboration across the PIEs. 18. A follow-on workshop on project-management skills and mission-building was organized by Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA) on April 271h, 2017. The focal points from the PIEs (FDA, EPA, LA, and MoA) participated in the workshop - a total of 20 participants. The workshop focused on team building and coordination amongst project officers and capacity and training needs identification. To 5 promote team-building and better collaboration across the PIEs, the Mission suggests that the RIU take the lead in organizing similar training and capacity-building workshops on a regular basis, 19. Launching of the Regional Inter-Agency Task-missions (RIATs). The LFSP envisages the formation of RIATs to facilitate project implementation through coordinated efforts (particularly among the PIEs) in the field. The RIATs will be headed by the FDA's Regional Forester and include core representation from EPA, LA, MLME, MoA, Ministry of Internal Affairs and CSO. They would consult with community leaders and traditional chiefs, as they pursue their oversight and coordination tasks. The Mission attended a meeting in Tubmanburg, and observed strong support for the proposed RIAT, from the Regional Forester, and representatives of the EPA, FTI, MLME and the LC. The RIU informed the Mission that the RIATs will be launched in the 4 regions according to the following schedule: Sanniquellie-May 4th, Tubmanburg-April 28th, Voinjama-April 25th, and Zwedru-May I". These regional launch have been conducted as scheduled. Local WB staff joined the mission on request from FDA. Draft TORs for the modus operandi of the RIATs have been prepared. It was agreed that they be finalized after incorporating regional inputs, and submitted to the Bank for a "no objection", by May 15', 2017. 20. Improving collaboration across the technical departments in FDA. Mission members participated as observers in a bi-monthly FDA-wide staff meeting (chaired by the MD). The Mission saw that to be an effective way to share information across the technical departments and units in FDA. The mission suggests that similar meetings, but focusing on LFSP implementation, be organized (on a monthly basis), as a means to promote information sharing internally, on the status of project implementation, and improved collaboration across the technical departments, at the FDA headquarters. 21. In addition, (as a follow up to meeting that the March mission Team had held with the MoFDP regarding FDA's staff retirement issue) the mission had a brief meeting with the FDA's Comptroller to get an update. It was agreed that FDA will submit a list of staff ready for retirement to the team. The comptroller also expressed concern over the meagre operational budget (US$150,000 for FY16/17), whilst the government expects FDA to raise 10.2M USD as revenue for FY17/18. The mission indicated that it will provide support to the efforts of FDAIRIU to prepare a budget based on FDA's operational requirements, for discussion with the MoFDP. 22. Support to the FDA Regional Offices. Visits by the Mission to the FDA field office in Greenville and the Region I and Region 4 offices in Tubmanburg and Zwedru respectively revealed their significant shortcomings and the serious constraints that these deficiencies pose for conducting activities in the field. Thus, the Mission considers the need for improvement of these facilities, including their renovation and construction, as priority tasks. 23. The mission visited FDA's Zwedru Regional Office, where further expansion of facilities is envisioned under the LFSP. An urgent priority is to demarcate (with cornerstones and other means, including temporary fences) the FDA's acquired plot of land at this site, to prevent squatting and unauthorized planting of crops by neighbors. Based on this very useful site visit and accompanying discussion, the mission agreed to provide additional comments to FDA on the draft Terms of Reference for Civil Works Design and Supervision by end of May, 2017. As the next step in this process, it was agreed that the FDA will ensure that the land is surveyed and legal documents (including deed) are obtained. It was also agreed that similar steps should be taken by FDA to secure all its properties with legal documents substantiating its claims to all [and acquired or donated by communities. 24. In Tubmanburg, the Mission learned that FDA has acquired a 2 acre plot, without any encroachment, and demarcated with cornerstones. However, the formal title still needs to be obtained from the Land Commissioner's office. The Mission suggested to the Regional Forester that the process of obtaining the title should be facilitated so as to enable construction to proceed. FDA to provide update to the WB team by May 31, 2017. 6 25. TOR for deconcentration and decentralization work. The Mission discussed with the RIU, the progress with the TORs for the deconcentration and decentralization, and agreed that it would be put on hold, till the draft 5-year Strategic Plan for FDA is available. If still needed, the TORs would be revised and put out to invite expressions of interest. 26. Environmental Improvement of Small-scale Mining. Under Component 1.1, support is available to the MLME for actions to engage and help organize small-scale miners to improve their environmental practices and thus reduce their adverse impacts upon Liberia's forests. MLME has already identified locations within the two LSFP Target Landscapes where small-scale mining is currently active. It was therefore agreed that MLME will undertake awareness activities in Grand Cape Mount, Gbarpolu, Grand Gedeh, and Sinoe counties. These initial consultations and awareness-raising activities are aimed at sensitizing the miners regarding environmental friendly mining practices, while eventually coordinating or organizing them into cooperatives. This is expected to improve the monitoring of small-scale mining activities, thereby eventually reducing deforestation and forest degradation, It was agreed that MLME will finalize its work plan to include activities up to end of 2017. To address large scale mining, MLME also intends to mainstream biodiversity offsets into new Mineral Development Agreements (MDAs) and to put forward a proposal to mining companies for integrating biodiversity offsets into existing MDAs at the Syear review period. COMPONENT 2 COMMUNITY FORESTRY 27. Community Forestry. Mission was informed by FDA, that due to access limitations, two of 10 communities that were selected initially (i.e. Gblebbo in Grand Kru and Gbarsaw & Weasehn in River- Cess) could not be assisted in the first phase of the project (a summary table with the updated list of pilot communities is included in Annex 6). Parameters for tracking status of communities is included in Annex 4. The RIU and the WB have only been informed of this change during the mission. Given that Aide Memoirs are disclosed documents, the mission kindly requested FDA that in future any changes to decisions agreed upon previously should be brought to attention of WB and RIU and thus recorded on a timely basis. 28. Based on the remaining tasks to complete the Socio-Economic Surveys (SER) (Step 3) the mission proposes that before initiating any new activities for Demarcation and Mapping (Step 4 and 5) in the 10 communities, draft SER Reports are fully completed and publicly disclosed on the FDA web page. 29. Also, to allow for lessons learned to be assimilated by the SER teams, and due to limitations of field activities during the rainy season, the mission recommends that no new communities be initiated into Step 3 until SER reports are completed. 30. According to FDA guidelines the Draft Reports of the SER should include the following documents: a) Draft reports including preliminary geo-referencing data b) Signed list of FDA Officials, CSO representatives and Community members who conducted the SER. c) Signed lists of community participants. 31. Once draft SER reports are completed, and cleared by the Managing Director, the mission recommends to make these documents available on the FDA Web page, usingthe Dash Board format agreed with FDA in the first segment of this mission report. The mission also recommends to share these documents with the CFWG, for which a special session should be organized, where the CFD can share their experiences and receive feedback from the group. 7 32. Selection of Communities and Typology. The mission discussed the need to continue identifying and improving the typology to identify and select communities under the project. An important criteria to consider is the "low hanging fruit" communities. These are communities that for a particular reason have a higher potential to move forward more quickly through the 9 steps, or where a promising livelihood option can be identified and promoted for a small community forestry enterprise (e.g. bee keeping). These communities would be used as pilots and serve as examples to showcase to other communities. 33. The number of communities to be assisted will also need to be determined with respect to capacity of the CFD at the central and regional offices (staff, vehicles, equipment, etc). Following the field visits of this mission, the mission observed that the amount of time and effort required to assist each community in a sound and regular basis is much greater than anticipated, and a strategic planning process of human and physical resources needs to be conducted at each of the 4 regional offices to make the operation more effective. 34. Other selection relevant criteria suggested by the mission included: (i) accessibility; (ii) main potential livelihood activities (e.g. logging, NTFPs, Conservation, etc); (iii) level of social organization and cohesiveness to reach collective agreements and make decisions; (iv) size [large vs small]; and (v) where other donors have initiated a process that needs to be continued. 35. Technical Service Providers (TSPs). The mission identified an urgent need to start identifying TSP (based on the preliminary list included PIM) that could start to assist communities in specific aspects of the CFMA process and, most importantly, to begin to identify livelihood options. This was particularly urgent for the more advanced communities such as Nitiran (visited during the field trip) so they can begin to receive the needed support without delay. The mission also identified the need to continue to expand and gather more information about available TSP, both at the national and regional levels, and reflect this in the Roster (or Directory) of TSPs that would be available for communities to select from as the project scales up its work with additional communities. 36. Mandate and Membership of the CFWG. The mission requested the CFD to: (i) provide the Bank with a copy of the report produced following the retreat conducted with the CFWG in late 2012; (ii) keep the Bank informed to the final approval of the TORs and list of members of the CFWG as soon as possible. The CFD informed the mission that the formalization process of the CFWG by the Board of FDA will be completed by June 30, 2017. 37. Meetings with communities. The mission also wants to express their deep gratitude to FDA (particularly the CFD and RIU) for the support and help to conduct the activities of this mission, particularly the field visits to Nitrian and San Gbeh, (Sinoe County). A summary of the main findings in these communities is included in Annex 8). CONSERVATION FORESTRY 38. Sapo National Park. In its visit to the Sapo National Park headquarters and ranger outposts, the mission discussed the need for additional equipment and other support from FDA. The mission advised FDA to take the next steps needed for timely procurement of a 4x4 vehicle (as part of the bulk vehicle acquisition), motorbikes, and office and field equipment (including ranger uniforms) for use by FDA's Sapo field staff. It was agreed that FDA would take the next step needed to procure motorbikes, office and field equipment for LFSP-supported protected areas, beginning with Sapo National Park by March 31, 2017. The mission was informed that the updating of the Sapo National Park Management Plan has been undertaken with support from the international NGO Fauna and Flora International (FFI). The mission requested a copy (when available) of the draft updated Management Plan that will be produced with FFI collaboration, so that the World Bank team could review it and provide technical comments. Based on this review, FDA and the World Bank will decide whether and how to further improve (or discard, if not needed) the draft TOR for Updating the Management Plan for Sapo National Park (NP). With respect to potential 8 livelihoods support to certain communities around Sapo NP, it was agreed that the selection criteria and procedures to be used will depend upon relevant information obtained during the boundary demarcation process (as described below). 39. Sapo Boundary Demarcation. The mission discussed the need to prioritize the physical demarcation of Sapo National Park's dry (non-river) boundaries, in order to enable effective protection and management operations. FDA indicated that the demarcation process would involve extensive consultations with local communities and other stakeholders, beginning with the first consultation meeting currently scheduled to take place at the Sapo National Park headquarters on March 29, 2017. The mission recommended that physical demarcation works could first be carried out along the majority of the park boundary that is not under any dispute. Following discussion of the technical aspects, it was agreed that the cleared boundary demarcation path at Sapo will be not more than 3 meters wide, with 2 meters considered fully acceptable. The mission also recommended that the demarcation process include the installation of informative signs at strategic points along the park's river as well as dry boundaries. 40. Sapo Boundary Dispute Resolution. The mission was informed of two specific areas where the park boundary (as delineated in 2003) is under some dispute with local communities: Chebioh Town and Putu-Jarwodee. It was agreed that the demarcation process would set up a multi-stakeholder committee to address these disputes prior to the demarcation of the disputed areas. The multi-stakeholder committee is expected to include key government ministries and agencies including the Land Authority, Ministry of Internal Affairs, National Traditional Council and Elders, County administration, representatives of NGOs, representatives of the involved communities and other relevant authorities. It was also agreed that FDA would arrange for a respected independent facilitator to lead this process and facilitate the dialogue between all concerned stakeholders. The outcome of this process will include an agreement between the parties on the specific alignment of the park boundary to be demarcated. 41. The mission discussed with FDA and NGO partners the planned investments to strengthen in 2018 the on-the-ground management of the Gola Forest National Park, Lake Piso Multiple Use Reserve, and Wonegizi Proposed Nature Reserve. 42. Pre-gazettement Activities. The Annual Work plan (through 2017) provides for pre-gazettement activities for the Proposed Protected Areas (PPAs) of Foya (in the northwest) and Gbi (in the southeast). In the case of the Foya PPA, the mission was inforned that the Society for Conservation of Nature in Liberia (SCNL) is carrying out a rapid assessment of the socio-economic status of communities and presence of key species, with a draft report expected by the end of May. Based on this information, the mission advised FDA to proceed as planned with contracting to carry out the terms of reference (TOR) for the Biodiversity and Socio-economic Study of Foya that is planned for LFSP support; the Bank had issued a No-Objection to this TOR on Februaiy 6, 20 17. However, the consultant that will be selected to carry out these TOR should take into account the relevant SCNL findings and adjust the scope of work as needed, to use LFSP funds efficiently and avoid duplicative expenses. 43. Conservation Trust Fund. The mission discussed specific ways in which the LFSP could support technical assistance to help ensure the effective functioning and sustainability of the recently-established Liberia Conservation Trust, as planned under Component 2.2. It was agreed that FDA would provide the World Bank with draft TOR outlining the scope of such technical assistance by April 30, 2017. 44. Tourism Strategic Study. The mission met with the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) to discuss and agree on modalities of conducting an assessment on eco-tourism and tourism potential in protected areas around the targeted landscapes. FDA will work with the Ministry in providing oversight to this assessment. The mission learnt that the MICAT has developed a strategy and a roadmap on developing the tourism sector. It was agreed that these documents will be shared with the mission team. It was hence agreed that the assessment will build on the Ministry roadmap, and focus on key areas with potential for tourism and eco-tourism development. The outputs of this assessment will be 9 shared through a consultative forum with targeted investors with potential to invest in tourism and eco- tourism in Liberia. Communities will be engaged throughout in this process. Other Issues 45. Meeting of National Climate Change Steering Committee. The first meeting of the National Climate Change Steering Committee was held on March 9, 2017. Meeting was chaired by Minister of Finance and Development Planning. FDA presented the project to the Committee and it was agreed that matters requiring higher level policy guidance would be presented to the Committee for its consideration. The Committee consists of representatives from Ministries from various sectors (Finance, Agriculture, MLME, EPA, and FDA amongst others), and is mandated to meet two times in a year. Mission appreciated the progress made in convening this meeting for higher level political ownership of forestry issues. 46. Status of ToRs Completed. Mission took stock of the progress on various ToRs that were agreed upon at last mission. Mission noted that majority of ToRs are finalized. Mission advanced discussion on MRV relevant ToRs with expert technical inputs. The status of ToRs finalized, advertised, and recruitments commenced is presented in Annex 2. 47. MOU with Liberia Land Authority. Liberia Land Authority is formally established and mission held two meetings with Land Authority to discuss the finalization of MOU and activities to be supported by LFSP. The MOU is expected to be signed, and final clearance by June 30, 2017 for lifting the disbursement condition that will enable fund flow to Land Authority to begin activities proposed under the project. 48. Project Reporting. The project follows an established system of semi-annual progress reporting to the Bank, with the latest report due by February 15, 2017. These semi-annual reports form the basis for reports on implementation progress from the World Bank to Norway. The mission notes that the reporting is not yet adequate (with reports submitted with gaps) and further improvements are required. The RIU's team capacity on M&R is expected to improve with recruitment of a dedicated M&E specialist. Field visit. Mission undertook a field visit to Sapo National Park, a FDA plantation area near Cavalla and one of the advanced communities with a signed CFMA agreement being supported by FDA (non LFSP Community) in Sinoe County, and a pilot community to observe the self-identification being supported by Land Tenure Facility. The field trip was extremely informative. Issues observed are discussed in respective sections. Discussions with mission team with the CFMA community in Sinoe revealed valuable lessons and gaps that FDA should consider moving forward. (ie documentation availability to communities; need for enhanced support to communities in the CFMA process through local presence, tracking of community grievances; enhancing communication between HQ and regional FDA staff). SAFEGUARDS 49. Safeguards Training. The mission discussed safeguards training needs with all the LSFP implementing entities. It was agreed that once the Environmental and Social Safeguards coordinators are recruited, a training, detailing the safeguards requirement and application for the LSFP will be conducted. The Implementing Entities requested that the safeguards training be conducted first at the National level, targeting all key staff from implementing entities and relevant technical service providers, followed by training at the targeted regional landscapes. EPA environmental guidelines and requirements will also be discussed and shared during this training. 50. Environmental Safeguards in Sustainable Agriculture. The mission met with the MoA officials to discuss how environmental safeguards will be addressed in Component 2.4 on Sustainable Agriculture. This component extends the geographic reach of (i) tree crop activities under the ongoing World Bank- supported Smallholder Tree Crop Rehabilitation Support Project (STCRSP) and (ii) field crop activities under the ongoing World Bank-supported West Africa Agricultural Productivity Project (WAAPP). For 10 tree crop activities, LFSP is expected to extend STCRSP activities geographically to one new county, River Gee. It was agreed that prior to the initiation of on-the-ground investments funded by LFSP in River Gee County, one or more site-specific Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) would be prepared where needed, based on the screening criteria in the STCRSP Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF). For field crop activities, based on the mission's discussions with EPA, it was agreed that site-specific ESMPs would be needed for any LFSP-supported subprojects involving 50 ha or more of cultivation (of rice or other crops) within wet] ands. Where needed, preparation of new ESMPs for LFSP-funded activities would be done under the guidance of the new STCRSP Environmental Safeguards Specialist after he/she is contracted (expected by May 2, 2017). This specialist will cover environmental safeguards for LFSP Component 2.4, as well as for STCRSP and WAAPP. 51. Gender: The mission encouraged FDA to ensure gender inclusion and main streaming in all aspects and components of the LSFP. FDA should consider developing a simple Code of Conduct for use by field staff with respect to behavior with communities specially women. PROCUREMENT 52. The mission noted that only FDA and the EPA have commenced with procurement activities which are highlighted below since the updated procurement plan was cleared by the Bank. * Procurement of vehicles and motorbikes by FDA. Bidding document has been cleared by the Bank. * Procurement of Ranger Uniforms for FDA. * Selection and Employment of Consultant to undertake Biodiversity Baseline Survey & Socio- economic Study for Foya FDA. * Selection and Employment of a Consultant to provide Technical Assistance for the SPU strengthening. * Selection and Employment of 11 Junior Officer, 8 NRM Officers, 12 Extension officers and a Social Safeguard Specialist for FDA. * Selection and Employment of a consultant to provide guidelines on community consultation in forestry projects for EPA. * Procurement of vehicles and motorbikes for EPA. 53. The Bank team had a working session with various Focal persons from the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Lands, the Liberia Land Authority, EPA and FDA to further explain the Bank's guidelines and the New Procurement Framework (NPF). The procurement specialist of the various agencies had also received training in the new Systematic Tracking of Exchanges in Procurement (STEP) which is to replace PROCYS. It is expected that by June 2017 all activities will be implemented through STEP. 54. The mission discussed some operational challenges that some agencies were encountering outside Monrovia. The issue is in connection with procurement of fuel for vehicles and catering services to the rural parts of Liberia. It was agreed that to ensure transparency, the Ministry of Agriculture should lead on the preparation of guidelines to be used in such instances. FDA and PFMU are to provide inputs for finalization. 55. The mission was informed of the participation of two (2) procurement staff of EPA in the World Bank Procurement in Goods procedures course at GIMPA, Ghana in October, 2016. 56. The procurement risk rating for LFSP is Substantial while the procurement performance is Moderately Satisfactory. 11 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 57. The FM arrangements including the DA and the opening and maintenance of project operations accounts were reviewed with the objective of unlocking any implementation bottlenecks for the project. The project was effective on August 30, 2016 and the initial advance of USD 3.0 million was disbursed to the project on November 21, 2016 by the Bank. The grant is about 8% disbursed. However, the mission noted that the DA has been inactive since the disbursement of the initial advance. Additionally, the mission noted that though operations accounts were opened for some of the project implementing entities (PIEs), most of the PIEs have not yet submitted their quarterly budgets in order for the FDA to approve the budgets which will serve as the cash call for the operations accounts. The FDA was advised to communicate to the PFMU once a PIE budget has been approved as funds can only be moved from the DA to the respective operations accounts on the basis of approved quarterly budgets. 58. Mission held a meeting of PIE focal points, FM and accountants with PFMU, WB FM and Procurement specialist. The signing arrangements for the operations accounts was also clarified to the PIEs. The PFMU and the MFDP ministers and the Controller and Accountant General are the signers to the operations accounts. However, the PFMU/MFDP cannot authorize any expenditure for the operations accounts except the PIEs. The PIEs will initiate, approve and authorize the expenses for their approved activities and, the expenditures will be submitted directly to the PFMU for processing and payment purposes. The mission also clarified on the role of the FDA and the PlEs in term of submission of payment requests to the PFMU/MFDP. The FDA will be responsible for approving the quarterly budgets of the PIEs and communicate same to the PFMU. The PIEs each will submit their payment requests, for agreed upon budgeted activities, directly to the PFMU for payment processing. The PIEs like the MoA whose operations accounts are opened were advised to commence submitting authorized expenditures directly to the PFMU for the payment processing. The mission was able to provide guidance and the operations accounts are expected to be fully operationalized and the disbursement rate is equally expected to improve for the project. The FM risk rating is 'Substantial' and the ISR FM rating is 'Satisfactory.'The PIM should be updated to reflect these changes. REDD+ READINESS 59. Submission of grant report for 3.6 million. The completion report for the $3.6 million is due for submission by March 31, 2017. A draft report was expected by March 15, 2017. It was agreed that the report will be submitted by March 25, 2017. Report has since been submitted with some delay. 60. Audit. The ToRs for financial audit were submitted and WB non-objection provided. FDA will complete the audit and submit final audited financial statements for TF 12530 for the period ending November 30, 2016 by May 31, 2017 61. Feedback and Grievance Redress Mechanism. The RIU requested for a no cost extension for the consultancy on FGRM. A revised work plan submitted. This work is expected to be completed by June 30, 2017. 62. Status of additional financing implementation. The disbursement under additional financing stands at 18%. Mission expressed concern with the low disbursement and slow progress with commissioning various consultancies. 63. Reference Emissions Level. One of the components of the additional REDD+ Readiness Preparation Support is the development of the Reference Level or Reference Emissions Level (component 3). The FREL work to be supported by additional financing will be fast tracked. It was agreed FDA will fast track the signing of agreement with FAO with agreement expected to be signed by mid-May after 12 necessary clearances with the WB and FAO. In the meantime FDA will begin procurement of goods needed for the National Forestry Inventory. 64. The mission discussed the progress of the activities under this component, specifically: (i) As per October 2016 mission discussions, the FDA intends to enter into a Framework agreement with the FAO for the FREL work. 3 key outputs are planned for (i) National Forest Inventory (ii) Forest Area Change Detection and finalization of FREL and (iii) Capacity strengthening for MRV in relevant institutions. The tasks will be supported from additional financing (task i) and partly from LFSP (tasks ii) and (iii). The FDA and FAO discussed the draft agreement between FAO and FDA. It was agreed that the agreement will be for a 24 month period with a provision that the timeline will be shortened if the fieldwork for the National Forest Inventory (NFI) takes less time than anticipated. Furthermore, it was clarified that FDA would like FAO to support the preparation of a sub-national REL (and later a national FREL). This activity will be added to the agreement. For this, FDA will share the work done on the REL by Winrock for review by FAO. Based on this, FAO will prepare a time estimate and budget proposal for finalizing FREL by April 3, 2017. FDA will then share the final draft agreement with World Bank by April 14, 2017 for clearance. (ii) The mission discussed the terms of reference for two staff to be hired, one to be based in FDA and one to be based in LISGIS. The mission emphasized the need to clarify the institutional arrangements for MRV and the development of the Reference Level and the respective roles of FDA, LISGIS and EPA in those arrangements. The government acknowledged that more discussion is required but emphasized that each institution's role should follow its mandate and tasks in the past. Key roles based on mandate seemingly are as follows: (i) FDA in data collection and analysis for forest cover and changes (ii) LISGIS: repository of data; quality check and (iii) EPA for national and international reporting including to UNFCCC for forest cover, FREL etc. FAO also emphasized that a national coordinator for the National Forest Inventory (NFI) is required and this would likely be a fill time work program. In addition a coordinator for MRV activities based in FDA to convene various agencies, and MRV coordination group for reviews and policy decisions; and a technical expert in LISGIS primarily for quality assurance. It was agreed that 3 staff will be hired: 2 staff at FDA consisting of one national coordinator for the NFI and one MRV officer. One MRV officer will also be hired to support LISGIS for the project duration. FDA will update the existing draft ToRs to reflect this agreement together with budget needs by May 15, 2017. 65. Update of the forest map of Liberia. A national land cover and forest map of Liberia was produced in 2015 as part of the REDD+ readiness process (first Readiness Grant). At the time of the map production, Liberia did not have an official forest definition yet and the map was produced to include various forest cover density classes (<30%/30-80%/>80% forest cover). A national definition of forest was agreed upon in January 2016 and this excludes industrial agricultural plantations such as oil palm. Therefore, a proposal was discussed to update the 2015 forest map using the latest forest definition and delineating agricultural tree crop plantations, and mangroves. It was discussed that the methodology and technology proposed to update the forest map could not necessarily be applied to develop a historic reference level and concerns were raised about the consistency and usefulness of the map with the products to be delivered by FAO. It was recognized that the updated map can have several uses including for spatial planning and classification, and it was agreed to go ahead with the updated map. FDA will facilitate an information exchange between FAO and Metria Geoville to maximize the coordination between updated forest and land cover map to be produced by Metria and FREL approach to be developed FAO. 66. Safeguards Information Systems (SIS). The mission team together with EPA discussed and agreed on the Terms of Reference for SIS. This work will be carried out through a consultancy and is expected to support Liberia meet its UNFCCC reporting requirement on how the Cancun safeguards are being addressed and respected by using the country-level approach to safeguards. 13 V. NEXT STEPS Action Deadline Responsibility Status Overall Management 1. Submission of LFSP Progress Report March 25, FDA Overdue Completed 2017 (Feb 15, 2017) 2. Submission of Completion Report March 25, FDA Completed with (FCPF $3.6 million grant) 2017 delay 3. Update PIM to reflect FM decisions May 31, FDA Not yet due taken during mission; share documents 2017 with PIEs. 4. Prepare work plan for LA, and finalize April 5, LA, MLME with Completed MLME work plan 2017 FDA support 5. Open pending operational accounts of April 10, PIEs (based on In Progress PIEs 2017 guidance provided). FDA to follow up promptly with PIEs Component 1. 6. Finalize TORs for international May 5, 2017 FDA-RIU Completed consultant and submit to Bank for no objection 7. Finalize TOR for the RIATs and submit May 15, FDA-RIU Not yet due to Bank for no objection 2017 8. Finalize announcement of recruitment May 30, FDA-RIU Not yet due for forestry apprentices 2017 9. Produce final training plan for EPA staff June 30, EPA/RIU/WB Not yet due 2017 10. Prepare multi-year budget for June 30, FDA-RIU Not yet due recruitment of apprentices 2017 11. Short report on critical needs for the FTI Dec. 31, FDA-RIU, with Not yet due 2017 FTI. Component 2.2 12. Carry out next step in demarcation of March 31, FDA Overdue FDA's Zwedru land parcel 2017 13. Take next step needed to procure March 31, FDA Initiated. In motorbikes, office and field equipment 2017 progress 14 Action Deadline Responsibility Status for LFSP-supported protected areas, beginning with Sapo National Park; 14. Finalize the Tourism and Eco-tourism April 14, FDA WB team potential study ToR (taking into account 2017 provided forthcoming comments from WB team) comments 15. Hire a facilitator to lead demarcation April 30, FDA To be commenced dispute resolution around Sapo National 2017 Park 16. Provide to the World Bank draft TOR May 15, FDA Not yet due for technical assistance to strengthen the 2017 Liberia Conservation Trust 17. Provide additional comments to FDA on May 31, WB Not yet due the draft Terms of Reference for Civil 2017 Works Design and Supervision 18. Conduct a training on social and June 30, WB/FDA Not yet due environmental safeguards (shortly after 2017 FDA's Social and Environmental Safeguards Specialists are on board) Component 2.3. Community Forest Activities 19. 10 Draft SER Reports from pilot April 20, CFD/RIU Completed communities fully completed 2017 20. Report of retreat of the CFWG April 21, CFD Overdue submitted to the Bank 2017 21. 10 Draft SER Reports from pilot April 25, RTIU Overdue communities uploaded in FDA Web 2017 page 22. 10 Draft SER Reports from pilot April 29, CFD Completed communities presented to the CFWG 2017 23. Final list of members and TORs of the June 1, 2017 CFD Not yet due CFWG submitted to the Bank. 24. CFWG Formally established June 30, CFD/RIU Not yet due 2017 25. Chedepo (River-Gee) and Bondi- July 15, CFD Not yet due Mandingo (Gbarpolu) from Step 6 to 2017 Step 8 (Community governance structures established) 26. Validation and Demarcation of first 10 July 30, RND/CFD/RIU Not yet due pilot communities (Step 5) completed. 2017 15 Action Deadline Responsibility Status 27. Study tour of NTFPs for Nitiran August 15, CFD Not yet due 2017 28. 10 additional communities from Step 2 TBD CFD Not yet due to 4. Technical support to CFD Field Teams 29. Community Forestry Data Sheet in May 15, CFD Not yet due Excel (See annex 7) 2017 30. Digital map of all communities May 15, CFD/RND/RIU Not yet due (communities as dots) 2017 31. Strategic Planning in 4 FDA Regional May 30, CFD/RIU Not yet due Offices (Logistics and operation) 2017 32. Proposal of (5) criteria for selecting June 30, CFD Not yet due "Low Hanging Fruit" communities 2017 33. Technical Service Providers Roster July 15, RIU Not yet due (Directory) improved and prepared 2017 region 34. TOR for Charcoal Study (follow up with May 30, RIU Not yet due Commercial Department) 2017 35. Guidelines for Community Management July 30, CFD Not yet due Plans submitted to the Bank 2017 36. Contract new STCRSP Environmental May 2, 2017 MoA Overdue Safeguards Specialist (responsible for environmental safeguards in LFSP Component 2.4); FCPF AF and LFSP Component 3.1 37. Prepare budget for FREL work April 3, FAO through Done 2017 FDA 38. Submit revised Draft Agreement with April 14, FDA Done FAO to WB 2017 39. Finalize TA agreement for REL, MRV May 10, FDA Overdue with FAO 2017 40. Submit final audited financial May 3 1, FDA Not yet due statements for TF 12530 for the period 2017 ending November 30, 2016 OUTSTANDING ACTIONS AGREED DURING OCTOBER2016 MISSION 16 Action Deadline Responsibility 1. Produce final plan of support for the Forestry October 2017 FDA Training Institutes (FTI) 2. Finalization of recruitment process for selection of June 30, 2017 FDA interns 3. County and community level planning meeting and November 20, FDA Conservation around Sapo National Park finalized 2016 Department ON HOLD 4. A contractor to develop signposts around Lake Piso February 2017 FDA Conservation Multiple Use Reserve (MUR) hired Department, RIU 5. Signposts around Lake Piso MUR erected March 302017 FDA Conservation Department. 6. A consulting firm to conduct Biodiversity Baseline March 31, 2017 FDA Conservation Survey in and around Foya and Obi PPAs hired Department, RIU 7. A consulting firm to conduct Socio-economic March 31, 2017 FDA Conservation study in and around Foya and Gbi PPAs hired Department, RIU 8. Junior Officers hired February 15, FDA Conservation 2017 Department, RIU 9. -lire 8 Extension Officers No later than CFD and RIU Feb 28, 2017 10. Hire 2 NRM Officers No later than CFD and RIU Feb 28, 2017 11. Hire I Community Forestry Coordinator No later than CFD and RIU (Specialist) Feb 28, 2017 12. 10 Pilot communities from Step 1-2 to Step 4 (SER January 31, CFD Community Reports completed) 2017 13. TOR for Community Demarcation Services sent to December 15, CFD the Bank for No Objection 2016 14. TOR for Charcoal Market Study sent to the Bank April 1, 2017 CFD for No Objection 15. TOR for Donestic Timber Market Study sent to April 1, 2017 CFD the Bank for No Objection 16. Final listing (Roster) of TSPs under the project for April 30, 2017 CFD community forestry 17. TOR Guidelines Community Forestry Management May 1, 2017 CFD Plan sent to the Bank for No Objection 18. 10 Pilot communities from Step 4 to Step 6 June 30, 2017 CFD (Demarcation completed and notices posted) 19. 10 additional communities from Step 1-2 to Step 4 June 30, 20 17 CFD (SER Community Reports completed) 17 Action Deadline Responsibility 20. 2 Pilot communities from Step 6 to Step 8 June 30, 2017 CFD (Community governance structures established) 21. 2 Pilot advanced communities with management June 30, 2017 CFD plans under preparation Component 2.4 22. Identification of Beneficiaries December 20, MOA/FDA 2016 23. Procurement of Seeds/other inputs December 15, MOA 2016 24. Preparation of Nurseries January 30, MOA/STCRSP 2017 25. Stakeholder consultation on 3 Innovation Platforms January 15, MOA/WAAPP (IP) 2017 26. Distribution of Seedlings/Seeds April-July 30, MOA/STCRSP/WAAP 2017 P 27. Purchase of Processing equipment September 20, MOA/WAAPP 2017 28. Development of Module and start of FFS April - August MOA/STCRSP 30, 2017 29. Market Linkage Facilitation Nov- Dec 30, MOA 2017 FCPF and FCPF-AF 30. Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist hired December 15, FDA-RIU (in final 2016 stage) 31. TOR for a consulting firm to design and pilot November 30, FDA-RIU Liberia REDD+ Registry System finalized 2016 32. Submit the for the TF 12530 the 17 month, final May 31, 2017 PFMU/FDA audited financial statements for the period ended November 30, 2016, on or May 31, 2017 VI. DISCLOSURE IDA and Forestry Development Authority confirm their understanding and agreement to publicly disclose this Aide M6moire. The disclosure of this Aide Memoire was confirmed in the wrap up meeting held on March 22, 2017 led by Hon. Harrison S. Karnwea, Sr. Managing Director of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA). VIL Next Mission Dates: The next full/ partial mission is tentatively scheduled for late --early august July 2017. Dates will be confirmed in consultation with FDA. 18 VIII. ANNEXES Annex 1. List of People Met Annex 2: Updated List of ToRs Annex 3. Updated Results Framework Annex 4: LFSP. Community Forestry Component (2.3). List of pilot communities selected for the initial phase of the project implementation, April 2017 Annex 5: Community Forestry Data Sheet (Excel Worksheet) (All communities that have submitted applications) (Suggested columns) Annex 6: Summary Findings of Field Visits on Community Forestry Annex 7: Mission Schedule 19 Annex 1. List of Persons Met Name Institution Position Government Institution 1. Hon. Harrison S. FDA Managing Director Karnwea, Sr. 2. Alvin E. Attah MFDP Deputy Minister for Economic Management 3. Hon. Darlington S. FDA Deputy Managing Director, Operations / Tuagben Managing Director 4. Kendrick F. Johnson FDA Deputy Managing Director, Administration & Finance 5. Anyaa Vohiri EPA Executive Director 6. Urias Goll EPA Deputy Executive Director 7. Johuson Q. Kei LISGIS Deputy Director General Coordination 8. Boiyan K Kpakolo MLME Assistant Minister Mineral Exploration and Environmental Research 9. Samuel MLME Assistant Minister Planning and Development Summerville 10. Stephen B Dorbor MLME Deputy Manager for Planning 11. Melvin F. Williams MLME Chief Budget Officer 12. Cassandra Hampton MLME Chief Administrative Officer 13. Mitchell S. FDA Technical Manager, Research and Kumbelay Development Department 14. Edward S. Kamara FDA Manager, Forest Product Marketing and Revenue 15. Simulu M. Kamara FDA Technical Manager, Legality Verification Department 16. Gertrude W. FDA Technical Manager - Community Forestry Nyanley Department 17. Joseph J. Tally FDA Technical Manager - Commercial Department 18. Theo V. Freeman FDA Technical Manager - Conservation Department 19. Jerry G Yonmah FDA Protected Areas Manager 20. Albert S. Darbi FDA Manager, Chain of Custody 21. Philip K. Joekolo FDA Manager, NAD 22. Myer K. Jargbah FDA Manager, SPA 23. Edward G. Gbeintor FDA Wildlife Manager 20 # Name Institution Position 24. Joseph G. Duolopeh FDA M&E Coordinator 25. Saah A. David, Jr. FDA-RIU National REDD+ Project Coordinator 26. Borwen Sayon FDA-RIU REDD+ Policy Coordinator 27. Ephraim S. Swen FDA-RIU Procurement Specialist 28. Lo-pu Kantor FDA-RIU Project Accountant Sangai 29. Anthony F. Vanwen FDA-RIU Communication and Engagement Specialist 30. Koko Dennis FDA Senior Extension Officer 31. Ernest V. B. FDA Manager GSA Massaquoi 32. Nick Benitos Goll FDA EIA Officer 33. Blamah S. Goll FDA Conservation Research Coordinator 34. Isaac Kipi FDA Comptroller 35. Anthony T. Koffa FDA Law Enforcement Officer 36. J. Samuel A. Weeks, FDA Asst. Manager (SPU) Sr. 37, Theophilus V. FDA Manager - Conservation Freeman 38. Armandu K. Daniels FDA Manager / Research and Development 39. Victor Y. Dolo, Sr. FDA Manager / Research and Development 40. Cletus Nah Tokpa FDA Manager/ Research and Development 41. Philip S. Wehyce FDA Assistant Planning Officer 42. Stephen S. FDA Inventory Officer / GIS Division Sekweyan 43. Philip K. Jokolo FDA National Authorizing Officer 44. Leo Harris Yeanay FDA Conservation Office 45. Lawrence Flono FDA Director 46. Evangeline S. FDA Assistant Protected Area Manager Nyantee 47. Ronnie K. Lawrence FDA Auditor 48. Richie Grear FDA Manager, PAD 49. Moses N. Beah FDA Wildlife Officer 50. Debbie D. D. FDA -IR Manager Moulton 51. Francis Dogba FDA Greenville Office, Quality Control Inspector 21 # Name Institution Position 52. Ruth K. Varney FDA Regional Forester 53. Paul Duo FDA Regional Forester 54. Jeremiah F. Karmo FTI Executive Director 55. David B. Ballah FTI Asst. Director 56. Z. Elijah Whapoe EPA Manager, Planning and Policy 57. Levi Z. Piah EPA Chief Technical Advisor 58. Edward G. Wingbah EPA Assis. Manager, County Coordinator 59. Aloysius K. Kotee EPA Assistant Manager, ESIA/EPA 60. Jarsa V. Okai EPA Environmental Inspector 61. Rebecca E. Doo EPA Procurement Officer 62. Korpo Sailley EPA Accountant 63. John K. Jallah EPA Assistant Manager, Compliance & Enforcement 64. Jefferson P. Dahn EPA Manager, Intersectoral Coordination 65. Claude Dionysius EPA Project Account Edwin 66. Daniel W. EPA County Head/Bomi Larwubah 67. Thomas L. Davis LISGIS Director - GIS 68. John Negatus LISGIS GIS & RS Specialist Wright 69. Dominic K. Paye LISGIS Accountant 70. Tom-Wesley LLA Member Korkpor 71. Emmanuel Johnson MoA / STCRSP Project Coordinator Nimbuen 72. J. Dennis Wiagbe, Jr MOA/DPD Assistant Director M&E 73. J. Cyrus Saygbe, Sr. MOA/WAAPP National Project Coordinator 74. Henry H. Sele MOA/WAAPP Project Accountant 75. Vashta C. B. MOA/WAAPP/STCRSP Procurement Officer Okpalauaekue 76. Zinnah A. S. Tamba MOA/ STCRSP M&E Officer 77. Jonathan B. Boiboi MOA/SOCODEVI Deputy Coordinator 78. Alexander P.B. MoA / STCRSP Project Assistant Yeaher 22 # Name Institution Position 79. Aagon N. Yoko MOA Agricultural Economist 80. Joseph L. Saysay MOA Agricultural Economist 81. Patrick T. Worzie MOA Assistant Minister, Planning and Development 82. Juanta Yrah Bureau of Director Tourism/MICAT 83. Antonette P. Woart MICAT Administrative Assistant 84. Justin M. Duopo Bureau ofTourim/MICAT Inspector 85. Wytelnen F. Bomell Bureau of Marketing Supervisor Tourism/MICAT 86. Chris Sokpor PFMU/MFDP PFMU Unit Manager 87. Hussein Salia PFMU/MFDP Senior Project Accountant 88. Papin Daniels PFMU/MFDP Project Accountant 89. Hon. Oblayon LIPA Director General Nyemah, Sr. 90. Prof. John T. Woods Dept. of Forestry, UoL Professor 91. Isaac K. Kipi FDA Comptroller 92. Tolbert Playe FDA 93. Morris Kannah FDA 94. Joe N. Manson FDA 95. Joseph K. Nyensuah FDA 96. Alexander Pa. FDA 97. Milton Jelley FDA 98. Alvin Kai FDA Park Ranger 99. Guwolason K. FDA Quaye 100. Nelson W. Kanmoh FDA 101. Tolbert Teah FDA 102. Jacob Nayor FDA 103. T. Swen Mentroe FDA 104. Alex K. Jabbeh FDA 105. Antonette P. Woart Adm/asst./Tourism 106. Justin M. Ouopu inspector 107. Wyteben F. Bomill MICA1 Sup. Marketing 23 # Name Institution Position 108. Juanta M. Yrah 109. Phiilipe Crete FAO International REDD+ expert for partnerships and fundraising 110. Mary Molokwu- FFI Country Operations Manager Odozi 111. Shadrach Kerwillain FFI Technical Adviser 112. Carl Wahl FF1 Program Manager 113. Colin Pringle FF1 Senior REDD+ Program Manager 114. Gregory Kitt Parley Liberia Executive Director 115. Nyahn Flono Parley Liberia Program Coordinator 116. Anne Gaidner RSPB/SCNL Project Manager 117. Jessica Donovan CI Country Director 118. Michael F. Garbo SCNL Executive Director 119. Keith Metzner USAID Natural Resources Officer 120. Lisa Korte USAID NRM Team Leader 121. Paul Meadows USAID PROSPER Chief of Party 122. Peter Aldinger USAID / PROSPER FDA Advisor 123. Abraham Guillen VPA Support Unit VPA Support Unit, FLEGT VPA Liberia and EU, Team Leader 124. Wolfgang Thoma VPA Support Unit Forestry Advisor 125. Oona Borke VPA FLEGT Facility Team Leader Johnson 126. Charles K. Miller VPA Support Unit Deputy Team Leader 127. Dervla Dowd WCF Country Director 24 Annex 2. Completed / approved TORs - LFSP Comp Description (TOR Needed) May 10, 2017 1.1. Strategic Planning Support Consultant (preparation of the Completed. Procurement FDA Strategic 5 year plan and support to strategic planning in progress function) (International and National) 1.1 Key environmental standards and guidelines Completed 1.2 National Environment Report National Environment Report 1.2 Forest concessions review WB non objection granted. FDA to begin procurement 2.2 Updating of Management Plan for Sapo NP Completed 2.2 FDA Junior Officers (Conservation department) Hiring in progress 2.2. Socio-economic and Biodiversity studies for Foya and Gbi Hiring of consultant in PPA progress 2.2. Preparation of a gazettement package for Foya PPA Hiring of consultant in progress 2.3 Extension Agents (Community Forestry Department) Hiring in progress 2.3 NRM Specialists (Community Forestry Department) Hiring in progress 3.2 Setting up and operationalizing the safeguards information Completed system 3.2 Development of the national guidelines on community Completed consultation in forestry projects 4.1 Procurement Officer Completed 4.1 Social Safeguards Specialist Hiring in progress 4.1 LFSP Project Audit Completed 4.1 Environmental Safeguards Specialist Hiring in Progress 25  Annex 3. Results Framework Project Development Objective (PDO): Improved management of, and increased benefit sharing in, targeted forest landscapes. Targets (cumulative) Data Respo R Y Rusibilit 3 YR4 YR5 Sources P eUnit of Base! YR Dec 2 Frequen y for Description/Commen PDO Level and a Measur ine 1 2016 (6- cy Data ts Indicators U e i7) (6- (6-19) (6-20) Methodolog Dat e 17) 18) yCollect ion PDO Indicator [ Ha 0 0 0 0 100, 350,000 600,000 Annual Field direct M&E Defined criteria: 1. 1: 000 observation functio The Management Plan Community n of the (MP) developed in forest area in FDA consultation with oreted are t forest dependent targeted forest Sample- communities approved landscapes based field by the FDA managed according to surveys 2. Clear demarcation defined criteria (semistructu of borders red interviews) 3. Area approved by in FDA as community community forestry areas. forestry 4. Existence of areas applicable benefit sharing mechanism With exception of indicators 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, and 3.1 as specified in the comments section 26 The benefit sharing arrangements at the community level are not restricted for carbon payments but for income coming from other sources too. Currently there are certain mechanisms established for revenues from forest concessions. The project will review these arrangements to consider its applicability for carbon payments and modify as needed The target hectares are based on the total of community forest areas included in an initial list of CFMA applications provided by the FDA and submitted at the time of project preparation. These communities will be supported through all the steps toward community 27 forest management. The end-of-project target is based on approval of 50% of these applications. The selection of communities wil be finalized in year I of implementation PDO Indicator METT Biannual METT M&E Some of these 2: Management score assessment functio protected areas have Effectiveness (0-100) n of the already been gazetted Tracking Tool FDA while others have not, (METT) score of but the project wiiI protected areas support the ground within targeted investments that are forest expected to result in landscapes'(disag iMETT score gatedi increases. Data will be proeted b : collected twice during project lifetime-at - Sapo NP 55 n/a 62 65 the idterm review and at the project end - Lake Piso MUR 49 n/a 64 74 - Wonegizi NR 39 n/a 55 65 -Gola Forest NP 48 n/a 60 70 5 The METT is widely used by the Bank and other organizations to assess how effectively protected areas are being managed. It was designed as one of a series of management effectiveness assessment tools around the World Commission on Protected Areas Framework. It comprises a detailed questionnaire (30 questions) that covers a broad range of management effectiveness issues, with the total score for each protected area ranging from 0 to about 100. 28 PDO Indicator ] Number 0 0 0 30,0 40,0 65,000 75,000 Annual Sample- M&E Target beneficiaries 3: 00 00 based field functio are (1) people from surveys n of the communities located People in (semistructu FDA in protected areas and targeted forest red <5 km from protected and adjacent interviews) area border (2a) communities with in and people who are increased around member of monetary or non- protected communities with monetary benefits areas and in Community Forestry from forests community Agreements and (2b) forestry people from areas communities with no Community Forest Agreements but that may access, harvest, and use timber and non-timber resources and are equally responsible for following forest MPs and procedures PDO Indicator f] Number 0 15,0 334 30,0 45,0 65,000 75,000 Annual Project and M&E This is a civic 4: 00 00 00 activity functio engagement indicator reports n of the People in and FDA around protected and community forestry areas in targeted landscapes who 29 participated in consultations on management of forests PDO Indicator Z Number 0 500 12 30,8 46,5 67,500 78,000 Annual Project and M&E The beneficiaries 5: (%) (40) traine 00 00 (40) (40) activity fCunctio include those Direct project d, # (40) (40) records n of the receiving some kind of beneficiaries, of of FDA benefit from all of the which female femal project's es =1 components/activities with no double counting Intermediate Results Component 1: Strengthened Regulatory and Institutional Arrangements for Implementation of REDD+ IR Indicator 1.1: Z Number 0 100 0 7000 1,00 15000 20,000 Annual Reports M&E Forest users are Forest users (%) (40) (40) 0 (40) (40) from functio community dwellers trained, of which (40) training n of the who directly derive f Iservice FDA female peovice livelihoods from the forest and who will receive direct training (a fraction of community members) Content of training courses is needs based and will be determined during project implementation 30 IR Indicator 1.2: Z Number 0 2 1 4 6 7 7 Annual Project and M&E Covers capacity- Government activity functio building projects institutions records n of the aiming at FDA strengthening forest provided with administration capacity-building institutions and other support to institutions to deliver improve services to the forest management of sector forest resources IR Indicator 1.3: [l Yes/No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Annual Data source: M&E Annual target National- and self functio sve assessment n of the Defined criteria: subnational-level by multi- FDA * Operating in open, coordination and stakeholder accountable and forest platform, transparent manner implementation independent * Operate under mechanisms assessment clear mutually operational at midterm supportive mandates according to by third with adequate, defined criteria party predictable, and sustainable budgets * Multisector coordination mechanisms and cross-sector collaboration established * Adequate technical supervision capacity * Adequate funds management capacity * Operating a transparent, impartial, 31 and clear FGRM National- and subnational-level coordination and forest implementation mechanisms include the following institutions: NCCSC, NCCS, RTWG, CFWG), Forestry Advisory Management Committee, Community Forestry Development Committee (CFDC), and County Forest Forum (CFF) IR Indicator 1.4: 0 Yes/No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Annual Project and M&E Annual target Reforms in forest activity functio policy, reports n of the Measures whether a legislation, or FDA project has supported other regulations forest sector reforms; supported includes support to revised policies or legal and institutional reforms that have been IR I c 1 E Y oYadopted by the client IR Indicator L5: D Yes/No No Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Annual Review of M&E Annual target minutes of functio New industrial national n of the Forest concessions: logging multi- FDA logging in forested concessions . . stakeholder areas 32 awarded only body (local, after international industrial logging (a) independent NGOs, concessions are review of all government specifically referred to forest agencies) as FMC, timber sale concessions for meetings contracts (TSC), and fiduciary and PUP. legal compliance Recommendations and from reviews to be (b) satisfactory forwarded to the FDA procedures for management that will future award of further forward forest recommendations to concessions their board for action established, and endorsed by national multi- stakeholder body IR Indicator 1.6: [] Yes/No No Yes N/A - Yes - Yes Bi- Review of M&E Annual target. annual minutes of functio Follow up to national n ofthe recommended multi- FDA Relevant reviews actions from stakeholder include the Special relevant body (local, Inclnd ent international Indepennt concession NGOs, Investigating Body reviews tracked goenet(SIIB), Liberia and made government Extractive Industries a ll agencies) Transparency pub lically meetings initiatives, and those available initiated by the LFSP biannually IR Indicator 1.7: 0 Yes/No No No No No Yes Yes Yes Annual Multi- M&E Annual target. J_ I_ I_ stakeholder functio 33 CFMA endorsed groups nof the by a national (local, FDA multi-stakeholder international 'No' in year I bodyNOs, and indicates that the bcodnc in t government endorsement by rmulti- accordanceagencies) stakeholder group is applicable not yet taking place. national laws and Legal regulations review of Applicable national endorsed laws and regulations: sCRL 2009 and CRL-R [Applies to CFMAs developed under ______ ___ ____ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _ _ ____ __ _________ ___ ___ project support only] Component 2: Strengthened Capacity for Management of Targeted Forest Landscapes [Rndiator2.1: Number 0 0 0 10 25 30 Annual Review of M&E Participatory land land use funtio use plans plans and raof the deindadpi lot FDA designedoandmdntubynenlati piloted at thetakingep on community level IR Indicator 2.2: 0 Ha, 0 0 0 115, 170, 260,000 320,000 Annual Review of M&E Encompassing four of Proposed number 0 000 000 3 4 submission functio the following five' protected areas 0 letter and n ofthe proposed protected 'for which 1 2 draft FDA areas (PPAs) einegazettment (estimated size shown documents has been rounded packages are down in the presented to the cumulative annual packagntargets because of * Foya PPA: 164,628 ha; Kpo Mountains PPA: 83,709 ha; Grand Kru-River Gee PPA: 135,100 ha; Gbi Forest PPA: 88,409 ha; Senkwehn PPA: 80,348 ha 34 office of the possible adjustments president in size when the actual boundaries are demarcated on the ground). IR Indicator 2.3: Z Number 0 1,00 0 2,50 3,50 5,000 8,000 Annual Sample- M&E People employed 0 0 0 based field functio in production and surveys n of the processing of (semi- FDA forest products structured interviews) in and around protected areas and in community forestry areas IR Indicator 2.4: -Hectare 0 0 0 0 100, 350,000 600,000 Annual M&E 'New areas' are 000 functio defined as community New areas n of the forest areas supported outside protected FDA by the project. areas managed as biodiversity friendly 35 IR Indicator 2.5: L Number 0 0 0 0 1 3 8 Annual Review and M&E Target refers to the Community count of functio number of enterprises. Forestry joint venture n of the Enterprises agreements FDA establishing joint ventures with other communities or other enterprises IER Indicator 2.6: U Hectare 0 0 0 0 100, 350,000 600,000 Annual M&E Community 000 functio forestry n of the management area FDA with forest use right registered as a result of the project 36 IR Indicator 2.7: 0 Number 0 500 0 800 1,50 2,500 3,000 Annual Review of M&E Smallholder tree 0 contracted functio crops farmers concessionai n of with access to the finance, input, sesvand FDA markets, and service with technologies as a providers assista result of the reports and lce of project count of the smaliholder agricult farmers with ure access project manag ement unit and the STCRS P Component3: Forest Monitoring Information System IR Indicator 3.1: O1 Yes/No No No No No Yes Yes Yes Annual Review of M&E Annual target. N4RV system standard and functio established and custom n of the Operational measures: reports from FDA Changes in forest area, aortoa MRV carbon content, ERs according to road system and data collection map and analysis, reporting and independent verification according to protocol. IR Indicator 3.2: D Yes/No No No No No Yes - - Annual Review of M&E Agreement on REL Reference level submission functio approach to be for results-based letter and n of communicated to supporting EPA UJNFCCC and finacig fdocuments and the potentially also REDD± as FDA used/adapted for developed and piloting results-based 37 submitted to the payments in targeted UNFCCC landscapes (in subsequent results based payments phase to follow this project) IR Indicator 3.3: L Yes/No No No No No Yes - - Annual Review of M&E The information Information pilot functio system includes, system for safeguard n of the among others, safeguards system EPA information on co- piloted in documentati benefits. targeted forest on landscapes Note: There are no specific outcomes and indicators defined for Component 4 in the Results Framework, as efforts in project management, monitoring, and communication will be essential for contributing to the outcomes defined for the other three components. 38 Annex 4 LFSP. Community Forestry Component (2.3) List of pilot communities selected for the initial phase of the project implementation April 2017 No. Community County Date of Step Observations selection completed at selection I Bukomu Obarpolit 11/16 2 2 Salayea Lofa 11/16 2 Not in the Project List 3 Central Morweh River-Cess 11/16 2 Not in the Project List 4 Obarsaw & Weasahn River-Cess 11/16 2 Not in the Project List 5 Gbeapo,Potupo&Sarbo River-Gee 11'16 2 6 Gblebbo Grand Kru 11:16 2 Postponed (limited access) 7 Sembehun Grand Cape MIt 11 16 2 8 Duo Grand Gedeb 11/16 2 Not in the Project List 9 San-Gbeh Since 11/16 2 10 Benduma Grand Cape Mount 2 11 [Bodey Clan A Lofa 04/17 2 New community added after 11/16 12 Kokoyan Bong 04/17 2 New community added after 11/16 Not in the Project List 13 Chedepo and Potupo River-Gee 11/16 4 14 [.Bondi-Mandingo Gbarpolu 11/16 4 Not in the Project List 15 Nitrian Sinoe 11/16 9 Not in the Project List 16 Numopoh Sinc 11/16 9 Not in the Project List 39 Annex 5 Community Forestry Data Sheet (Excel Worksheet) (All communities that have submitted applications) (Suggested columns) 1. Name of Community 2. County 3. District 4. Date of Application 5. Name of signatory of application or focal point; full name 6. Purpose of CFMA: Commercial and/or Conservation 7. CRL Step completed: 2 to 9. 8. Number of towns/villages: those listed in the application 9. Estimated population: number of people 10. Estimated area of community forest: in hectares 1. FDA Regional Office: 1, 2, 3, 4 12. Nearest main town: largest town, (for example Greenville), or capital of Country (for example Zwedru), whatever is closer. 13. Distance to Main nearest town: in km 14. Accessibility: Difficult, Moderate, Easy 15. Time to get to the community: in hours, during dry season, and during rainy season 16. With CFMA: official CFMA granted. Check mark 17. With Management Plan: Check mark 18. Other donors assisting the community: PROSPER, FFI, FIFES, WB, FAO, etc. Others....... ? 40 Annex 6. Summary Findings of Field Visits. Visit to Nitrian, Sinoce (04. 09.17) * Community with a CFMA since 2011. One of the first communities to apply after the CRL was passes in 2009, and regulations came into effect in 2011. * Close to Greenville and with good access roads (approximate time from Greenville is 1.5 hrs.) * It was Palm Sunday. Came in 5 hours early. Some elders upset because they were not ready. * Meeting lasted about 2.5 hours. * Proposed a session to draw a map of the community. * They want to add a substantial area of forest to their current Community Forest, which is 970 ha. * They know the boundaries because thy line is the river. * Community wants to extend forest area and do logging. They also want to start a honey bee keeping business for the women. * We met with the president of the CFMB. Name: Dennis. Young and energetic guy. * The elders led the map sketching exercise. It took them about half an hour to draw the map. * We went to visit the community forest. It was an about 30 min hike. * Community also has an old coconut plantation, a * They also have an area under concession for oil palm with GBL * Good participation and signs of cohesive social organization. Visit to San Gbeh, Sinne. (04.10.17). * Very remote community. Includes 12 towns. * Long and controversial boundaries. * Bush meet is an important livelihood activity. * Slash and burn subsistence farming is the main source of food security. * Have no alternative livelihood activities in forest areas until they gain CFMA status. Have been waiting for almost 3 years to start step 3. * Very well attended meeting. All towns represented * People with a common traditional history and culture. They belong to the Seekon tribe which is a sub-sub ethnic group of the Sapo people. Sapo is a sub group the Krahn Triab * Strong social capital based on the traditions of the social ethnic group * Community asked for: improvement of connectivity of to their 12 towns (roads), employment opportunities, and speeding of the 9 step process (fast tracking their CFMA). * Interested in Commercial activities, ready to invite investor: logging, agriculture, coconut, rice, palm, rubber. * Women with strong connection to forest resources for their livelihoods. * Elders all want to pass on the forest to the next generation! They want to keep it productive. Long term vision. Want to ensure sustainable ways to manage the forest, and generate income and jobs at the same time. * Community with many young members. They kept quiet but were asked to comment at one point in the meeting. They responded vigorously. One young leader spoke about a controversy the community had with FDA on the issue of the legality of bush meet hunting. Young men are actively doing this activity in the community and want to continue doing it. 41 Annex 7. Mission Schedule Liberia Forest Sector Project Implementation Second Support Mission March 8-24, 2017 Date Agenda Itern Mar 8 Wed Internal coordination (WB mission team) Mar 9 Thu 8an-9am: Kick off meeting with Country Manager I1lam-1 2amn: Kick off meeting at FDA, MD to Chair (agree on mission agenda) 2 pmn: Meein of National Climate Change Steering Committee I1pm-4pm: Progress Overview ftrm FDA/ Status of ToRs; Review on the updated status of the work plan;_ F iel d V is it d iscuss ions; Update on NCCS C 4pmn-5pmn: Discuss key issues on project implemnentation with MD Mar 10 Fri Morning: Meeting with USAID, and VPA 2 -3 pmn: Meeting with ML.ME 3-5 pm Meeting on MRV 3:30 -5 pm Discussion on safeguards with MOA Mar 11 Sat Preparation for the project launch and field visit Mar 12 Sun Preparation for the project launch and field visit Mar 13 Preparation for the project launch Mon 9-11 AM: Meeting of Implementing Agencies focal points + technical managers FDA; (Procurement, FM) I 1-12:30 PM: Preparation/Brainstorming session on (i) planning safeguards training for LFSP staff and (ii) environmental safeguards review of future Community Forest Management Plans 1-5 pm: VC on community forestry/ Component 1. Mar 14 Tue 9 - 2 pn Project Launch Ceremony at the National Level 2:30 PM: Meeting with Land Authority 2:30 PM: Meeting with FFI 3:00 PM Meeting with EPA Mar 15 7am: Depart to Sapo National Park Wed Mar 16 Split into 2 teams - one to Sapo and another to Numopoh, Juazon and Jille Thu Mar 17 Fri Visit to Chebioh Town to see the Zonal offices (rangers post); Park boundary extension issues; Evidence of mining; Jawodee Town - ranger post; Visit LTF communities; Assess the needs for functional Park HQ / Ranger posts vis a vis project support/ Next steps Mar 18 Sat Visit regional offices, staff and planned expansion of infrastructures sites; Meeting local authorities; Travel to Cavaly Forest and also and FDA plantation Mar 19 Sun Return to Monrovia from Ganta Mar 20 9-12 pm: WB team internal stock take Mon 2 pm-3:30 pm: Debriefing Meeting with NGOs/CSOs/partners on progress, issues, and next steps around Sapo NP. 3:3 0-5 pmn: Meet with NGOs/C SOs/partners on progress and plan s for LFS P work at Gola NP and Wonegizi PPA 2-5 pm: Follow Up MRV-Meeting with FAO Mar 21 Tue 9-1 pm; WB team to finalise Aide Memoire 42 Date Agenda Item 2- 3 pm: Meeting with the Ministry of Tourism March 22 10 am- 11:30 AM: Wrap-up meeting with FDA, MD to chair Wednesday 12-1 PM: Sustainability of FDA operations 3-5 pm: Brainstorming meeting on Conservation Trust Fund (preparation of TOR for LFSP support) 43 Liberia Forest Sector ProJect Implementation Second Support Mission April 3-21 Date Agenda Apr 3 Mon 12-2 pm Meeting with Community Forestry Department, finalization of field-trip Apr 4 Tue 9am-Oam: Kick off meeting with Country Manager 1 lam-2pm: Update on community forest work-plan with CFD 3:00 - 4:30 pin: Meeting with EPA Apr 5 Wed 9am-5 pm-Participate in the VPA-JIC meeting Meet with MD Darlington 3:30 PM Meeting with LIPA to finalize Project management training scheduled for April 18 Apr 6 Thu 9:00- 11:00-VPA-JIC 11:30-3:00: Preparation of ToRs for an international consultant, interim regional task forces and Project Officer April 7 9:30-11:30-Community Forestry and field trip Friday 1:30-4:30-Discussion with MD Apr 8 Sat 9AM depart to Greensville Apr 9 Sun Visit to Nitrian Apr 10 Mon Visit to Sam-Gbeh Apr II Tue Return from Sinoe, via Worr (to inspect pitsawing activities) Apr 12 Wed Day visit to see Parley site (Kpathawee Clan) Apr 13 Thu 7:30-8:30-Project management issues 9:30-1 I:00-Community Forestry I1-I PM--Wrap-up on Community forestry with MD 4:00-5:OOPM-Land Authority Apr 14 Fri Team drafts Aide memoire Apr 17 Mon 10:00-11:30-Attend the bi-monthly FDA staff meeting 11 :30-12:00PM-Meeting with the FDA Comptroller Apr 18 Tue Completion of additional TORs, discussions with RIU on support to forestry training institutes, etc. Apr 19 Wed Capacity development training (M&E) Apr 20 Thu Travel to Tubmanburg to visit FTf campus, FDA Regional office, and participate in a heads-tip meeting for the launch of the Regional Inter Agency Task-Team (RIAT) Apr 21 Fri 9-12: Team drafts AM section for Component I and shares with RIU 44