Overview of the project

The “Camayenne” arboretum is a significant example of the original desire to know, identify and control the species of the African forest. However, the general state of degradation of the area; with regular removal of surfaces, felling, opportunistic construction, and the lack of consideration for this heritage at its true value, have led to a situation of extreme fragility which bears a scathing testimony to the way in which we treat nature, in particular the African forest.

However, it must be considered that many of the fields of knowledge concerned require specialised expertise and arbitration:

• Urban and landscape aspects – Restoring a quality public space in the city, thus helping to strengthen the image of the capital.
• Historical and educational aspects – Describe precisely why and how tree species have been grouped here and according to which scientific approach in order to present the area in all its components, particularly its history.
• Ecological and symbolic aspects – A place that bears witness to the power of the African trees and the alarming situation of the continent’s forests. We also want to develop the idea that there is a viable economy based on the preservation of the forests (ecotourism, medicine, crafts, environmental education for the youngest, research centre, meeting place, etc.).