Reforesting Tanzania To Defend Ecosystems

Program Hopes To Mitigate Climate Change, Wildlife Extinction

Ecosystems around the world are under assault like never before. The collapse of any ecosystem impacts life around the world–especially when the ecosystem is an anchor in Africa's greenbelt.

The greater Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania and Kenya is one of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet. Millions of people and several endangered species depend on the snows and rains of Kilimanjaro for survival. If these ecosystems collapse, it will have a ripple effect across Africa and around the world.

The Mellowswan Foundation Africa-Tanzania has a great vision to defend the greater Kilimanjaro ecosystem with more than 10 million new seedlings, community engagement,wildlife conservation strategies and more. They will educate local stakeholders about sustainable forestry, sustainable agriculture and wildlife management.

Tanzania lost more than half of its elephants to poachers over the past decade. They could be wiped out entirely in just five or six years.

Adding to the crisis, there has been loss of wildlife habitat and biodiversity as a result of fragmentation and loss of critical ecosystem linkages and over-exploitation of the natural habitats. This loss of habitat brings humans and wildlife into more and more conflict over food, water and space–which means more bloodshed.

Conservationists are demanding more efforts to protect endangered species now. In a letter published July 27, 2016 in the journal BioScience, 43 wildlife conservationists warn that elephants, lions, rhinos, gorillas and many other species will become extinct without urgent intervention, which must include habitat conservation, community engagement and more.

We will plant trees for sustainable timber, rainfall management, groundwater conservation, food, wildlife habitat and other regional needs. We will include an urban forestry program that will help “street kids” generate food and income. The urban canopy can help capture pollutants and water runoff, while making the cities more resilient and energy efficient.

Unlike past reforestation efforts in the region, we will focus on local needs and long-term sustainability. The seedlings are indigenous species that can help restore and protect the integrity of the ecosystem, while helping rural communities thrive as stewards of the land.

Please Help Save Kilimanjaro. We have great rewards for donors, sponsors and volunteers. https://www.gofundme.com/SaveKilimanjaro