Tree Nursery Project – Zambia

Deforestation and soil erosion, combined with inappropriate farming techniques have lead to a decline in soil fertility leaving land in northern Zambia severely degraded. Tree planting forms a core part of poverty reduction.

The Tree Nursery Project managed by our partner Flori Organic Gardens trains villagers in tree nursery management. Trees are produced for the local population so they can be planted to reverse the effects of deforestation. The project raises awareness of agro-forestry practices in local villages in Mpika, Zambia.

There are now 20 volunteers from seven isolated local villages working in the nursery. A mixture of native, non native and indigenous tree species are selected for their rapid growth, leguminous nature to fertilize poor soil, high oil content, shade, fruit and quality of timber. This is a very small scale project where £300 can go a long way.

In four years 23,000 tree saplings have been raised through this initiative. Thanks to this project, there is greater awareness of the damage to trees caused by fires. The project is promoting a diversity of tree species that will complement household diets, provide medicinal properties, fruits rich in vitamins, and offer income opportunities. In the future this project aims to earn enough income from the sale of seeds, and the sale of eucalyptus timber to sustain its development and capacity. Matured trees will continue to provide animal fodder, wood for community use for fuel and timber.