Communities from across Meghalaya came together to formally constitute the Meghalaya Community Conserved Area Forum (MCCAF) at Ribhoi district.
SHILLONG, DECEMBER 6 (MExN): Communities from across Meghalaya came together to formally constitute the Meghalaya Community Conserved Area Forum (MCCAF) during the third State Level Community Conserved Area (CCA) convening held at the State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD), Nongsder, Ribhoi district.
The MCCAF was formed following earlier meetings that drew inspiration from the Nagaland Community Conserved Area Forum (NCCAF), aiming to strengthen community-led conservation efforts. Community Conserved Areas are biodiversity-rich landscapes traditionally protected by local communities through customary practices.
The event was attended by 47 representatives from 46 villages across nine blocks, spanning the East Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, East Jaintia Hills, and South Garo Hills districts.
The forum elected 10 office bearers, including two women, representing the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills regions. The constitution of MCCAF was finalized and formalized after extensive discussions and consultations.
Sanjay Sharma, Regional Head of the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES) North East, urged MCCAF members to carry forward their ancestors’ legacy of conserving biodiversity and natural resources. MCCAF President Fowler Darnei shared his transformation from a hunter to a conservationist and called for unity among federated CCAs to protect forests, water resources, culture, and traditional practices.
Secretary Attention Syiemlieh emphasized that the success of the MCCAF would depend on collective efforts beyond the office bearers. The convening was facilitated by Yaranajit Deka, Senior Programme Manager, and team Meghalaya of FES. The official logo of MCCAF was also finalized during the meeting.
Vice-President Prestine R Marak highlighted the need for collaboration among the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia communities to ensure the forum’s success. The vote of thanks was delivered by Daiophika Thangkhiew, Project Manager, FES.
