Over 15,000 trees planted under ‘Urithi Wetu TPT2’ initiative

DODOMA: MORE than 30 youth activists under the “Urithi Wetu TPT2” initiative have completed a 700-km walk from Ujiji, Kigoma to Dodoma, aimed at promoting environment conservation and preserving Tanzanian culture.

The campaign, which began on January 25, 2025, led to planting of over 15,000 trees along the route as part of their advocacy efforts.

The walk was organised by the APHI Foundation in collaboration with the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) to ensure tree planting at every stop.

The Dodoma Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) Kaspar Mmuya commended the initiative, highlighting the region’s success in afforestation.

“Since the Green Campaign started in 2017, Dodoma has planted over 16 million trees. Following President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive, each district in the region must plant at least 1.5 million trees annually,” he said.

He further urged motorcycle (boda boda) riders and institutions to take up the responsibility of planting and maintaining trees around their workplaces.

“In three years, you will sit under the shades of the trees you planted, take pride in preserving your environment,” he urged.

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The walk coordinator from APHI Foundation, Mr Philip Ally stressed the urgent need to restore degraded landscapes along the Kigoma-Dodoma route.

“If well maintained, this route could become a potential tourism attraction and even be recognised as a world heritage site,” he noted.

Reflecting on the journey, Mr Ally revealed that the walk, which lasted nearly a month, faced challenges including exhaustion and participant dropouts.

“We started with 15 people. By the time we reached Kaliua and Urambo, 11 had quitted, leaving only four. However, as we passed through Singida, more people joined us, bringing the total to 35 participants,” he explained.

Chairperson of the APHI Foundation Board of Trustees, Jeremiah Wambura, announced that the campaign will conclude on March 16 this year in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, with thousands more trees to be planted along the route.

One of the Dodoma residents, commended the initiative, particularly its message to livestock keepers.

“For livestock to thrive, the environment must be protected. These youth have reminded us of our duty to care for nature and preserve our cultural heritage,” he added.