Why it is important
Deforestation contributes to global warming. This is devastating to our planet and has a huge impact on local farmers in Tanzania.
The farmers we work with in Tanzania are some of the poorest people in the world. When they have a problem, such as having a sick child, they have to cut down a tree to sell as firewood. But now there are hardly any trees left. Because of global warming the rainfall patterns have changed, resulting in crop failures and an ongoing cycle of poverty.
How it makes a difference
Trees enable people to grow their way out of poverty and this scheme aims to transform the economy of the region. The trees grow quickly and will eventually be worth £40 each. Our aim is for each farmer to tend to about 200 trees. The farmer can use this money for his children’s education and healthcare.
Over the last nine months, we have planted 8,000 trees in partnership with 30 local farmers. Our aim is to plant a further 25,000 trees over the next 12 months. We are also putting together a continuous planting programme to replace any trees that are felled for lumber in 15 years’ time.
"The tree project enables us to plan for the future and give our children a better life". Yusef, Nyambeshi.