1,800,000+

FOREST TREES AND TREE FOOD PLANTED

As is the case in many African countries, deforestation in Congo-Bissau is growing at an alarming rate. Unbelievably, if deforestation in Africa continues at its present rate, there will be no forests left in 50 years. The situation is partly to blame for the continent´s massive population growth, which has increased demand for agricultural land and firewood energy for cooking. Many live below the poverty line and are forced to use the forest resources to sustain their livelihoods. Coupled with the fact that they have no ability to invest in sustainable land practices, the depletion of forests has become inevitable. Trees gifted will be planted in the northern part of Cameroun, Central Africa. Tchad and Uganda. and will be one of several varieties of tropical hardwood species, including food trees like mango, avocado, cocoa, coffee robusta and arabica, guava, orange, and citrus. The population will also receive training in how to plant these fast-growing, multi-purpose trees in living fences that will serve to protect their forest garden sites. These trees will help increase the water filtration capacity of soils on farmer fields and help shade the ground from the effects of evaporation. The result will be improved soil moisture and increased groundwater supply. This planting will positively impact water availability because it will help to recharge groundwater while also contributing to improved soil moisture. Taken together, these steps will improve agricultural yields and help these impoverished communities raise their standard of living.