Women tree planters of the Mara, a year on

Project update

24 Nov

Written By International Tree Foundation

At Christmas time last year we raised money for our good friend Noormichuki, and her tree planting project in the Mara, Kenya. As one of the first woman tree planters of this region, we were incredibly excited to support her in setting up new seedling nurseries and train other women in her community. Noormichuki knows how vital trees are in protecting soil from erosion, rivers from pollution, improving local climate and increasing crop yields.

Thanks to generous ITF donors, a year on and Noormicuki and friends have planted 11,610 trees! These have been planted along the river, around the training centre and within the grounds of both primary and secondary schools.

Noormichuki has been able to train other women in tree nursery establishment and agroforestry concepts. Using equipment provided by the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2019, they’ve managed to expand the tree nurseries, propagating and planting even more tree species than before.

“I have added more knowledge in agroforestry, especially on how trees can directly benefit my livestock, my family, and prevent soil erosion.” – Nadupoi

30 other community members have been trained in tree nursery management and planting, which means they can pass on their skills to their family and friends. Noormichuki has seen women now respected as decision makers for their families, gaining more respect in their community.

“I can provide food for my family, and other people are now respecting me more in the community.” – Nadupoi

With some setbacks due to the COVID pandemic, Noormichuki and friends plan to plant even more trees this year coming. Trees are best planted during the rainy season. Which is why they are hoping to plant another 24,000 trees from April 2021. And we can’t wait to hear more!