Beyond the Moratorium: From Protection to Restoration of Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir in Togo

Abstract

As Togo’s 10-year moratorium on Pterocarpus erinaceus approaches its expiration in 2026, urgent restoration and propagation actions are needed to avoid renewed degradation of this strategic species. This policy brief presents key findings from research conducted in Togo on the vegetative propagation of Pterocarpus erinaceus through air layering under ex situ conditions. The study demonstrates that air layering is an effective technique for producing vigorous and resilient planting material, with higher rooting success during the rainy season and significantly better survival compared to seed-derived seedlings. The document highlights the urgent need to move beyond passive protection measures toward active restoration and domestication strategies. It provides practical recommendations for scaling up restoration programs, strengthening nursery systems, training local producers and forestry technicians, and supporting sustainable management of P. erinaceus in Togo and West Africa. This policy brief is intended for policy makers, forestry services, restoration programs, researchers, development partners, and organizations involved in forest landscape restoration and climate resilience initiatives.