Tanzania

Our work in Tanzania focuses on restoring degraded landscapes that border some of the country’s most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas. By scaling local innovations and integrating sustainable technologies, we create lasting solutions that revitalising ecosystems while empowering the people who depend on them.

Our projects focus on where we can make the the fastest, most lasting impact for people and planet.

  • Usambara Mountains – A global biodiversity hotspot.

  • Kilimanjaro Forest Water Tower – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Katavi and Rukwa Regions – A critical river basin and wildlife corridor.

  • Miombo Woodlands – One of Africa’s largest and most vital ecosystems.

Together, we’re restoring forests, protecting wildlife, and building resilient communities for a sustainable future.

Biodiversity hotspots

Nestled in north-eastern Tanzania, the Usambara Mountains are part of the Eastern Arc range and one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. Home to seven vertebrate species found nowhere else on earth, these forests help regulate local climates, protect vital water sources and provide essential resources for surrounding communities.

To safeguard this unique ecosystem, we have partnered with local community-based organisations to restore its hydrogeological functions. By planting trees to strengthen landscape resilience, we ensure that both nature and local communities can thrive for generations to come.

“Through the agroforestry project we are free from hunger and increase students’ attendance”

Ashura Ramadhani Said, Ufungilo Secondary School

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this project, which has enabled us to cultivate over 1,300 Gliricidia sepium trees. These trees have not only enhanced soil fertility and reduced wind effects around our home but have also provided valuable food sources for bees. It’s fulfilling to see the positive impact our efforts are having on both our environment and our community.”

Chirstina Vitalis Malilo, Kibaoni village

Conserving Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is more than an iconic landmark. Rising to 5,895 metres, it supports five distinct vegetation zones, home to rare and endemic species. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, its forests regulate climate, sustain biodiversity and provide essential resources for surrounding communities.

Kilimanjaro is also the source of the Pangani River, a lifeline for agriculture, homes, and Tanzania’s energy sector. This river flows over 200 miles to the Indian Ocean, supporting small-scale farmers and hydroelectric stations that generate 17% of the country’s hydroelectric power. However, deforestation, climate change and increasing water demand threaten its stability.

Through conservation efforts, we work to protect Kilimanjaro’s forests, ensuring sustainable water flow, safeguarding biodiversity and securing livelihoods for future generations.

Why community-led?

Giving the microphone to the local community to share their experiences and stories enables them to best identify their needs and priorities. It also reveals the richness of their indigenous knowledge and local insights about risks and potential solutions. By taking the lead and owning the projects, the community shapes meaningful outcomes and impacts. This collaborative approach creates impactful and sustainable projects which are also enjoyable. And the community knows that they are valued, in control and central to decision making.

Our approach

  • We are community-led

    Through radical listening, we engage communities to identify their needs and ideas. Together, create practical, locally-driven solutions that include everyone—especially women, young people, and vulnerable groups.

  • Multiple impact approach

    Our mission goes beyond planting trees. We’re restoring damaged landscapes while helping communities thrive with better livelihoods, stronger economies, and healthier ecosystems.

  • Protecting endangered trees

    We combine indigenous knowledge and scientific methods to protect endangered and threatened native trees. From identifying and propagating these vital species to planting them, we follow international standards like the IUCN Red List and Plant for the Planet.

  • Participatory monitoring

    By involving communities and using cutting-edge GIS technology, we collect real-time data to track progress, learn what’s working, and improve as we go. This approach ensures an impressive 85% or higher tree survival rate.

Lasting change

In partnership with WASIMA we are rehabilitating the Katavi-Rukwa river basin in Tanzania’s southwestern highlands. Not only are we planting 50,000 tree seedlings to help restore the degraded landscapes, we’re championing agroforesty, where trees are mixed with crops, to improve soil and increase yield. This sustainable farming is improving food security and increasing household incomes while bringing nature back to life.

And to ensure we make a lasting difference, were inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through our schools programme.

Local communities and schools are planting native trees to green up their neighbourhood and ease pressure on existing forests. By engaging schoolchildren and fostering a culture of conservation we’re protecting this vital ecosystem for the future.

Sign up to our newsletter to learn more about our work in Tanzania and beyond.

Nurseries and livelihoods

The Miombo woodlands are essential to rural communities, providing fruits, honey, livestock fodder, and fuelwood. Despite nutrient-poor soil and long dry seasons, this ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including endemic birds, elephants and sable antelopes.

However, deforestation for agriculture, ranching and charcoal production, along with illegal hunting, threatens this fragile landscape.

In partnership with the Mpingo Conservation & Development Initiative (MCDI), we are working with local communities to establish tree nurseries and sustainable livelihood programmes. Together, we are restoring the Miombo woodlands while ensuring long-term benefits for both people and nature.

Community tree nurseries in Tanzania are propagating 12 African tree species threatened with extinction, to ensure none of these precious species will be lost.

Plant trees and restore forests today

Can you imagine a world without trees? Neither can we. Your support today can plant trees, bring forests back to life and help nature recover for people and planet.