Thanks to EAMCEF’s support, I’ve been able to lead tourists more effectively and contribute to forest conservation efforts. The upgrades to Bunduki Campsite have been crucial—they’ve built toilets for visitors, resting shelters, and 280 steps that make the journey to Hululu waterfalls much safer and easier. EAMCEF has also established boundaries to prevent fires from spreading from nearby farmland into the forest, helping us protect this precious environment. These improvements mean I can provide a higher standard of guidance to visitors, and our community has become much more aware of the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism. On a personal note, I have planted about 800-900 trees in various areas. This allows me to meet essential needs, as I can use some trees for firewood or sell them when in need. This tree-planting initiative has also greatly benefited our community, reducing the pressure on the forest and helping us sustainably manage our resources.”

Founded in 2018 with 15 members, Fagilia Mazingira now has 25. Initially performing for entertainment, we shifted focus in 2020 after partnering with Association Mazingira, using songs, dances, and tree-planting education to promote conservation. Despite challenges like limited storage for our products, we’ve received 30 invitations, including from TANAPA, to raise awareness about preserving culture and the environment.

“Formed in 2016 with 20 members, Zimamoto focuses on preserving Tanzanian culture and reducing poverty. Partnering with Association Mazingira and TANAPA, we received training in agriculture, livestock farming, and traditional crafts, saving over 1.8 million shillings. Despite challenges like limited space to display our products, we educate the community on combating deforestation and poaching in the Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve.

With EAMCEF’s support, we received training in Same on forest preservation and visited Shengena Forest, experiencing its unique wildlife. This inspired us to build our traditional home and use songs, plays, and performances to educate and encourage the community to protect the environment.

Before, I grew maize and vegetables, but after Nakya introduced us to sunflower farming in 2013, I decided to switch. That year, I harvested 13 bags, compared to 5 or 6 before. Not only did I benefit, but other villagers saw the changes and also started growing sunflowers. This has significantly contributed to conserving our mountain environment, as more people have switched to gas instead of relying on firewood.

As a sunflower farmer, I no longer worry about store-bought oil costs because I use my own sunflower oil. This farming has allowed me to buy a gas stove and stop using charcoal from people destroying the Mkingu forest. The income from selling sunflower oil supports other crops like rice and pays my children’s school fees. The yields make it easier to meet my family’s needs and have improved my overall economic situation..