DAR ES SALAAM: ALL preparations are complete for the ‘Kilimanjaro Walk’, an initiative that aims to plant two million trees as part of a short-term plan to preserve the snow on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.
The initiative, according to the organizers, plays a vital role in boosting the country’s economy and addressing the global challenge of climate change.
The walk scheduled to take place on May 17th this year will be graced by the Tanzanian Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa to signal the importance of the campaign at the national level.
The event will cover 5km, 10km, and 16km starting from Marangu Gate, a key entry point to Kilimanjaro National Park.
The campaign will be implemented across four regions—Kilimanjaro, Manyara, Arusha, and Tanga, with thousands expected to participate in planting trees and raising awareness about environmental conservation.
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Speaking at a press briefing, the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Deborah Nyakisinda, emphasised that this two-million-tree initiative is only the beginning of a much broader and ambitious environmental vision.
She added that over the next five years, the foundation plans to plant 10 million trees, and by the year 2050, their goal is to reach one billion trees across the country.
“The value of one tree is 5,000/-,” Nyakisinda noted, calling on stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to support the initiative. “We must all join hands to preserve our beautiful mountain and protect our environment for future generations.”
Supporting the initiative, Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) Senior Conservation Officer, Haika Bayona, reaffirmed TANAPA’s commitment to environmental conservation and its support for the Nessa Foundation’s campaign.
“TANAPA will continue to support these vital efforts to protect the country’s natural resources,” Bayona stated. “Preserving the ecosystem of Mount Kilimanjaro is not only crucial for environmental sustainability but also for the tourism industry, which contributes significantly to Tanzania’s economy.”
She urged all Tanzanians and stakeholders to actively engage in tree planting and forest conservation. “Planting and protecting trees is essential to safeguarding the mountain from further environmental degradation,” she said.
As the countdown to the Kilimanjaro Walk begins, the campaign is expected to draw national and international attention, highlighting Tanzania’s proactive role in climate action and environmental preservation.
