Leona Foundation

Leona Foundation is dedicated to building resilient and equitable communities by addressing climate change, gender injustice, and economic inequality. With a decade of experience, the organization empowers vulnerable groups through land restoration, food security, and sustainable livelihoods, while also advocating for gender justice and providing psychosocial support. Their approach integrates climate action with social transformation, emphasizing community-driven programs, strategic partnerships, and the exchange of indigenous knowledge. Leona Foundation is recognized for its commitment to long-term impact, inclusivity, and sustainability, particularly through initiatives that promote women’s leadership and restore degraded landscapes.

The proposed project, RESTORE-LIKIA, aims to regenerate 137.2 hectares of Likia Forest and riparian zones using diverse indigenous tree species and erosion control methods, enhancing biodiversity and water quality along the Makalia River. The initiative will work with over 1,200 households to promote agroforestry, sustainable land use, water source protection, and alternative energy solutions, thereby improving livelihoods and reducing pressure on local forests. Activities include establishing agroecology demonstration farms, training community members in regenerative agriculture, installing energy-efficient cookstoves, and supporting green job creation through nurseries and beekeeping. The project also prioritizes social inclusion by strengthening governance and ensuring significant participation of women and youth in leadership roles, fostering long-term stewardship and resilience in the Likia area.