Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the African Forest Forum (AFF)?

The African Forest Forum is a pan-African, non-political, non-governmental organization that brings together individuals and institutions who care about the sustainable management, wise use, and conservation of Africa’s forest and tree resources. AFF works to advance forestry on the continent through research, policy engagement, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.

  1. Who can become a member of AFF?

Membership is open to individuals and institutions working in or interested in forestry and related fields, including:

  • Researchers and academics
  • Forestry professionals and practitioners
  • Policymakers and civil society actors
  • Indigenous Peoples and local communities
  • Private sector stakeholders
  • Students and young professionals
  • Media professionals
  1. What are the benefits of joining AFF?

Members enjoy:

  • Access to exclusive forestry knowledge and publications
  • Participation in regional and global policy dialogues
  • Networking opportunities with African and global experts
  • Opportunities to contribute to research, training, and pilot projects
  • Information on funding, jobs, events, and capacity-building programmes
  • A platform to share their work and voice their perspectives
  1. How do I become a member?

Simply visit the [Membership Page] on our website and complete the application form. Membership applications are approved by the Governing Council of AFF that meets once a year around March.

  1. Is there a membership fee?

AFF membership is currently free of charge for individuals and institutions. However, this is subject to change in the future based on the evolving needs of the Forum.

  1. How does AFF support its members?

AFF engages members through:

  • Technical advisory roles
  • Task forces and working groups
  • Collaborative research and projects
  • Fellowship and internship programmes
  • Communication platforms for visibility and outreach
  1. Can I contribute to AFF’s work?

Absolutely. Members are encouraged to contribute knowledge, research, case studies, and local insights to AFF’s growing knowledge hub. Opportunities also exist to join thematic groups, co-author publications, and serve as experts on specific assignments.

8.How is AFF different from other forestry organizations?

The African Forest Forum (AFF) is a membership-based platform dedicated exclusively to forestry and tree-based landscapes in Africa. What sets AFF apart is its inclusive approach: it brings together individuals and institutions from all sectors of African forestry—from scientists, Indigenous Peoples, and community leaders to policymakers, private sector actors, media and youth.

Unlike many organizations that work through top-down or project-based models, AFF builds a continental community of practice that emphasizes:

  • African leadership and ownership in forestry matters
  • The integration of science, policy, and indigenous knowledge
  • Direct engagement of members in shaping research, dialogue, training, and advocacy
  • A strong focus on pan-African collaboration and influence in global forest policy spaces

Through its inclusive platform for sharing, learning, and collaboration, AFF amplifies the collective voice and drives coordinated action toward the sustainable management and wise use of Africa’s forest and tree resources.

Find out more about our programmatic approach and ongoing projects