Ground Update: Empowering Communities Through Reforestation in Korogwe District, Tanzania!

In August 2024, another visit happened to our planting sites in the Usambara Mountains of northeastern Tanzania, where our reforestation efforts are making a tangible difference. This visit allowed us to assess the progress of our projects, connect with the local community, and witness the transformative impact that tree planting is having on both the environment and people's livelihoods. Overall, we have planted more than 1.4 million trees in Tanzania so far.

The Usambara Mountains: A Biodiversity Hotspot

The Usambara Mountains, part of the Eastern Arc Mountain range, are renowned for their exceptional biodiversity and endemic species. These ancient mountains, formed over 100 million years ago, are home to unique flora and fauna, making them a critical area for conservation efforts. Our reforestation projects in this region aim to restore and protect this invaluable ecosystem.

Visiting Our Sites

During this visit, the expert team checked key planting sites, a few of them include Kicheba, Ngwelo Forest, Zigi River Bank, Monga Sakale, Korogwe-Hale River site, and Shambangeda. These sites are at the heart of our mission in Korogwe District, Tanzania, to restore degraded landscapes while empowering local communities through sustainable agroforestry practices. In total, we have planted more than 600,000 trees in Korogwe with Forest Focus.

At the Kicheba site, we’ve planted 97,901 trees, focusing on native species that enhance biodiversity and protect the ecosystem. The trees are growing healthily thanks to favorable weather conditions and the dedicated care of local planters. These trees are revitalizing the forest and providing meaningful work for the local community.

At Ngwelo Forest, we have planted nearly 41,660 trees overall. This includes a new planting in Ngwelo Forest, where 18,404 trees have recently taken root. These trees are thriving, thanks to the dedication of local planters.

Our efforts at the Zigi River Bank are crucial in preventing erosion and stabilizing the riverbanks, where we’ve planted 8,150 trees. The impact here goes beyond environmental restoration—the trees protect a vital water source for nearby communities, safeguarding the ecosystem for generations to come.

In the Monga Sakale region, we’ve introduced a mix of native and fruit-bearing trees as part of our agroforestry approach. With 25,402 trees planted, these fruit trees are particularly important for local farmers, offering them a sustainable source of income. The farmers we met spoke passionately about how these trees are not just restoring the land but also providing them with a new source of livelihood, improving their economic stability.

At the Shambangeda, we’ve planted 63,123 trees, contributing to the restoration of degraded landscapes and providing further employment opportunities for the local community. Additionally, the Korogwe-Hale River site boasts 92,311 trees planted, enhancing the ecological balance in the area.

A Personal Story of Impact

We met Antoni, a local farmer in Monga Sakale, who shared his hopes with us. "Since this project started, I feel more hopeful about my family's future," Antoni said. "It’s not easy, but I believe it will help us earn more money and live better. We are also planting fruit-bearing trees, which I know will help us too. This project gives us hope for a better tomorrow."

Challenges Faced

While our visit showcased many successes, it's important to acknowledge the challenges we've faced. The region experienced a severe drought earlier this year, which affected the growth and survival rates of some newly planted trees. This setback highlighted the need for more drought-resistant species and improved water management techniques.

Additionally, the threat of forest fires poses a significant risk to our reforestation efforts. To combat this, the local community has taken proactive measures by constructing fire breaks, which help to prevent the spread of fires and protect the newly planted trees. We're working closely with local experts to adapt our strategies and ensure the long-term resilience of our reforestation efforts.

Monitoring and Community Involvement

Throughout the visit, the expert team carried out surveys to monitor tree density and growth, with promising results despite the drought challenges. The trees are generally thriving, and the overall survival rates remain encouraging. Local communities have taken ownership of the project and actively participate in planting and caring for the trees. This strong community engagement ensures the long-term success of the reforestation efforts and contributes to the overall sustainability of the project.

The enthusiasm and dedication we experienced during this visit reaffirm the importance of our work. These trees are more than just part of a reforestation project—they represent hope, economic empowerment, and a greener future for the people of Tanzania.

Looking Ahead

Impact Hero will continue to support these communities and build on the success of our reforestation initiatives in Tanzania. Together, we’re not just planting trees; we’re sowing the seeds of change, restoring ecosystems, and transforming lives.

Stay connected with us for more updates as we continue our mission to create a positive impact across the globe.

From Trees with Love,

Ajmal Hussian Shaik

Marketing Manager, Impact Hero