Distribution and cultural identity of sacred groves in Togo

Abstract

Sacred groves are important for biodiversity conservation but they face several threats. This study explores the contribution of these forest to the Togo Forest Landscape Restoration initiative and REDD+ implementation, based on inventories and systematic mapping. The results reveal that Togo has more than 780 sacred groves which cover 3,627.68 ha. The vegetation types cover by the sacred groves are woodlands (1 974.3 ha), dry semi-deciduous forests (882.52 ha) and tree savannas (537.82 ha). Many deities and vocations were associated with the sacred groves; ceremonial and prayer sacred groves (80,86%), voodoo and conservation sacred groves (12,46%), cemetery or burial sacred groves (3,11%), residence or retreat sacred groves (2.52%), secret meetings, and festivities or celebrations sacred groves (1,03%). These results highlight the need to consider sacred groves within the framework of the Togo Forest Landscape Restoration initiative and implementation of REDD+ strategies.