Transforming lives and landscapes through agroforestry

Project update

16 Feb

Written By International Tree Foundation

There’s no doubt that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity.

Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall and the increased severity of droughts is affecting the lives and livelihoods of rural communities worldwide.

After five consecutive poor performing rain seasons, Kenya is experiencing its longest drought in decades. And right now, millions of people in drought affected areas are facing fundamental threats to their livelihood, food and water security.

But if managed properly, trees and forests can be an effective tool against the climate crisis, safeguarding our planet's future.

That’s why we’re working with partners like Irangi Forest Fireguard and Control (IFFC) to plant trees that strengthen the resilience of drought-affected communities in Central Kenya.

Agroforestry: a nature-based solution

The practice of agroforestry (mixing agriculture with trees) is designed to mirror natural forest ecosystems. It improves landscapes making them more productive and increasing food and water security.

From water regulation and capturing carbon to sheltering biodiversity and improving soil quality, agroforestry can play a important role in addressing the challenges brought on by climate change.

Through this project with IFFC, we’re providing training and resources on agroforestry to 500 local farmers to support with the maintenance of healthy and productive landscapes. We’re also supporting the wider community to set up tree nurseries and plant native trees that restore and protect local forest ecosystems.

Improving farmer livelihoods

For farmers living in drought affected areas, agroforestry has a huge potential to bring about tangible and positive change like more rainfall and a higher crop yield.

In the last 12 months, our incredible community partners have raised 75,000 seedlings in local community tree nurseries. And this year, our goal is to plant 10,000 agroforestry trees to support sustainable livelihoods and thriving landscapes.

Not only will this project support communities to build resilience against drought and other extreme weather events, it will also reduce pressure on local forest ecosystems as agroforestry provides essential forest products such as fodder and fuelwood.