Forest Focus’ Post

"Plant to stop poverty" initiative aims to alleviate poverty through a strategic planting approach that encompasses both agroforestry and aquatic native tree species. This endeavor seeks to establish a harmonious equilibrium between conservation efforts and the provision of resources that local communities can utilize for their livelihoods. In our agroforestry efforts, we focus on planting a variety of tree species, including grafted and budded fruit trees like avocados, oranges, and mangoes. The goal is to enhance food production and generate tradable items, thereby bolstering local economies. This, in turn, aims to deter destructive activities such as illegal charcoal production and logging. These agroforestry trees are cultivated on individual, institutional, or family-owned farmlands.

Same 01 planting site comprises of an approximated 600 ha farm land in the Northern Pare mountains of Kilimanjaro region. Community in this zone is tied to a tradition ginger farming which has had negative implications on water and land use. Traditional agriculture leads to clearance of vegetation and excessive water loss due to higher water demand to support the activity. Shengena nature reserve is now overwhelmed of people’s forestry needs as it appears the only source for water channeled towards the farms. The first step is to empowering people to diversify their farms with more agroforestry trees where species such as Mangifera indica, Albizia schimperiana, Citrus Sps and Persea americana freely supplied for them.

We are glad to have extended to the mountains' communities of Kilimanjaro region, here are farmers utilizing the current friendly weather to diversify most of their agroforests by planting Hass avocado and some citrus species. The trees are expected to start producing in the next 24 months.

The relationship between trees and poverty alleviation is multi-faceted. From providing economic opportunities and nutritional support to enhancing environmental sustainability and climate resilience, trees stand as powerful allies in the fight against poverty. Recognizing and promoting the value of trees in poverty reduction efforts can pave the way for more sustainable and equitable development, creating a world where both people and the environment thrive in harmony.

More schools are now joining our environmental education program designed to help young generation unlock available environmental potentials to fulfill their dreams. In this program youth build more practical experience on how to construct quick producing farming ecosystems using agroforestry technologies.🌳🌳

Conserving Pangani river banks is crucial for maintaining water quality for the population, preventing erosion, preserving habitats, and safeguarding ecosystems. Here are some methods Forest Focus has just adopted to help conserve Pangani river banks: 🌳Creating and maintaining vegetative buffer zones along the riverbanks by planting aquatic friendly trees. These zones help prevent soil erosion, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for wildlife. Native trees, shrubs, and grasses are planted along the banks to stabilize the soil and absorb excess nutrients. 🌳Local community members are educated about the importance of river bank conservation and engaged in clean-up efforts, tree planting, and other conservation activities to create a sense of ownership and responsibility for the river's health. 🌳Forest Focus works with farmers near the riverbanks and facilitates them to adopt sustainable agroforestry practices to help reduce soil erosion and prevent excess runoff of fertilizers and pesticides into the rivers.

25% of the trees involved in Plant to stop poverty project are agroforestry trees such as fruits, nuts and spices which are freely offered to farmers living across the areas we plant. For two seasons now 1,230,000 agroforestry trees were distributed to farmers in 56 villages. The trees will help to improve rural income to reduce charcoal business which is the main source for deforestation.

We're facing a global climate crisis, and it's high time we take meaningful action to combat it. The evidence is clear, our planet is experiencing rising temperatures, extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and the loss of precious biodiversity. These changes are not only threatening the environment but also our way of life. We owe it to ourselves, future generations, and the countless species we share this world with to address this urgent issue. Good news is that we can make a difference, and it starts with raising awareness and taking action, no matter how small it may seem. 🌳Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Cut down on waste by being mindful of what you consume and disposing of items properly. Recycling and reusing items can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. 🌳Save Energy: Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider switching to energy-efficient bulbs and appliances. Small changes can lead to big energy savings. 🌳Reduce Water Usage: Fix leaky faucets and consider installing low-flow showerheads and toilets to conserve water. 🌳Support Renewable Energy: If possible, opt for clean energy sources like solar or wind power for your home. Many regions have green energy options that you can choose. 🌳Reduce Meat Consumption: Consider adopting a more plant-based diet, even if it's just for a few meals a week. The meat industry has a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions. 🌳Advocate for Change: Engage with local and national policymakers to demand stronger climate policies and support initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions. 🌳Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about climate change and share your knowledge with friends and family. The more people understand the issue, the greater the collective effort to address it. 🌳Support Sustainable Businesses: Choose to support companies that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Remember, it's not about achieving perfection but making progress. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the bigger picture.