Together4trees Kenya Fall 2024 Project
π± The organization employs 18 local people full-time, as well as 27 local volunteers. π³
π³ Introduction
Together4trees Kenya, previously known as Giwa Climate Response, is a dynamic environmental conservation organization based in Nyeri County, Kenya. With a mission to restore and enhance the countryβs forest cover, the organization has been instrumental in mobilizing communities, particularly in primary schools, to engage in tree-planting activities. π±
π² Activities and Impact
Since its inception, Together4trees Kenya has spearheaded numerous tree planting initiatives, particularly focusing on indigenous and fruit trees. π³ Their self-disclosed figures reveal an impressive track record: from 2021 to 2024, the organization successfully planted a staggering 490,000 trees across various regions. π This includes species such as Pinus patula, Grevillea robusta, and Eucalyptus, among others. πΏ Their efforts have been primarily concentrated in public primary schools and forest areas within Nyeri County, ensuring that each planted tree contributes to both environmental restoration and community well-being. π
In response to the growing demand for tree seedlings, Together4trees Kenya has set ambitious targets for the upcoming years. For instance, on September 6th, 2024, the organization plans to plant an additional 6,000 trees in Nyeri County, with each of the targeted schools receiving 2,000 seedlings. π± This event is not an isolated occurrence but part of a broader, continuous effort to plant 600,000 trees over the next five years. π
π₯ Community Involvement and Partnerships
Together4trees Kenyaβs approach to environmental conservation is deeply rooted in community engagement. π« The organization regularly involves students, local volunteers, and community members in their activities, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. π± The organization employs 18 local people full-time, as well as 27 local volunteers. π³
These activities, supported by local stakeholders such as the Kenya Forest Service and various community groups, are critical in enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of their conservation efforts. π Moreover, Together4trees Kenya collaborates with international and local partners to amplify their impact. π± Some of their key partners include Sightspan Inc. (USA), Global LandCare (Australia), and the Kenya Forest Service. These partnerships not only provide financial and logistical support but also help the organization align with best practices in environmental conservation. π
Full List of Partners
- Sightspan Inc. (USA)
- Global LandCare (Australia)
- Global Water Partnership (Sweden)
- River Cleanup (Belgium)
- Tree Action (UK)
- Kenya Forest Service (Kenya)
- Impactors Initiative (Dubai, UAE)
- MojoStreaming.com (Canada)
π§ Challenges and Future Goals
Despite their successes, Together4trees Kenya faces significant challenges, particularly in securing adequate funding for purchasing tree seedlings and covering transportation costs. π However, the organization remains undeterred and is actively seeking micro-grants and partnerships to support their initiatives (see below to donate). πͺ
Looking ahead, Together4trees Kenya is committed to scaling up its tree planting efforts and expanding its environmental programs to reach more communities. π± Their ultimate goal is to plant 600,000 trees over the next five years, focusing on areas that are most in need of reforestation. π³ By doing so, they aim to contribute significantly to Kenya's national target of achieving 10% forest cover by 2030. π
Species of Trees Planted in August 2024
Species | Quantity |
---|---|
1. Cupressus lusitanica | 150 |
2. Pinus patula | 135 |
3. Eucalyptus | 180 |
4. Grevillea robusta | 165 |
5. Casuarina | 185 |
6. Leuceana | 110 |
7. Cassia | 125 |
8. Calliandra | 190 |
9. Acacia | 260 |
Total: 1,500 |
Exact Species by Number That Will Be Planted in September 2024
Species | Quantity |
---|---|
1. Pawpaw | 255 |
2. Citrus | 255 |
3. Mangoes | 340 |
4. Passion fruits | 275 |
5. Cupressus lusitanica | 385 |
6. Pinus patula | 450 |
7. Eucalyptus | 530 |
8. Grevillea robusta | 515 |
9. Casuarina | 510 |
10. Leuceana | 495 |
11. Cassia | 495 |
12. Calliandra | 410 |
13. Acacia | 565 |
14. Sesbania | 520 |
Total: 6,000 |
π‘ Commitment to Transparency and Technological Integration
In the spirit of transparency and accountability, Together4trees Kenya has embraced technological tools to enhance the visibility and traceability of their projects. π² They have uploaded detailed polygons of their September 2024 tree planting initiatives onto Restor.Eco, a globally recognized platform that tracks and monitors ecological restoration projects. π± This step not only allows for public scrutiny but also ensures that the progress of their reforestation efforts can be independently verified by anyone interested in the impact of their work. π
View on Restor: Mathari Primary School, Mwenji Primary School, Kihuyo Primary School
π Conclusion
Together4trees Kenya stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against environmental degradation in Kenya. π As they continue to grow and expand their activities, Together4trees Kenya is poised to make an even greater impact on the environment and the lives of the communities they serve. π Click here to donate to the project. Email together4trees.org@gmail.com to contact Justus for information. Check them out on Facebook.