Sustainable plant nurseries

In the western part of Tanzania, we have established 17 small plant nurseries. Here we give women and men the tools and methods to plant more sustainably. This initiative contributes to restoring destroyed ecosystems in the area.

Plant nurseries benefit the climate and host communities

The influx of refugees to the Kigoma region of Tanzania in recent years has put increased pressure on the host community. In particular, the need for firewood has increased significantly, and as a direct consequence, large areas of forest have been cleared.

This is neither beneficial for the climate nor the people living in the area. Quite the contrary.

The purpose of our nurseries is therefore to restore destroyed ecosystems in the area while empowering host communities in more efficient and sustainable planting. When a tree is cut down, we plant a new one.

Our nurseries in Tanzania contribute to:

Maintain biodiversity in the areas concerned
Provide host communities with knowledge about sustainable and more efficient planting
Meet an increased need for firewood
Provide fruit and vegetables to families living in nearby refugee camps

Climate aid: How plant nurseries work

Along the ridge of a small mountain in the Kigoma region, you'll find one of our sustainable nurseries. Here, women and men from the local community meet weekly to be trained in sustainable planting.

In addition to training, we provide the group with soil, seeds and the necessary gardening tools to plant new trees and plants in areas where nature has been destroyed.

In addition to a salary, the group also receives a share of the crops that grow in the area. These include tomatoes, avocados, papayas, lemons and jackfruit. They use them either to supplement their own diet or to sell locally to generate extra income. In addition, some of the crops are distributed to vulnerable families in the nearby refugee camps.

"Water-positive" trees and plants

All trees and plants in our nurseries in the Kigoma region are water-positive. This means that they don't require much water. They get the water they need via water pumped from the nearby river. It supplies water to the entire area.