The TUI Care Foundation has launched the second phase of its TUI Forest Zanzibar project, aiming to further protect and restore the biodiversity of Masingini Forest National Park. The project, in collaboration with the Kawa Foundation, is a crucial initiative to safeguard this vital ecosystem, which is home to the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey and many other unique plant and animal species.
Located just eight kilometers from Zanzibar’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town, Masingini Forest serves as a critical ecological zone and a key source of groundwater for the island’s capital. However, rapid population growth and increasing urbanization around the park have put significant pressure on the forest, leading to deforestation and land degradation. In response to these challenges, the TUI Care Foundation has scaled up its efforts to restore the forest and create a buffer zone to protect it from further damage.
Key Achievements and Goals of Phase Two
The first phase of the TUI Forest Zanzibar project successfully planted 63,400 trees and established a tree nursery, alongside the creation of an outdoor classroom for environmental education. This phase engaged over 500 local community members, raising awareness about the importance of forests for climate regulation, water security, and livelihoods. It also fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the local population by involving them directly in conservation efforts.
In its second phase, the TUI Forest project will further its efforts by planting an additional 67,000 native trees. The focus will remain on biodiversity-supporting species, such as endangered plants and medicinal trees. Additionally, the project will introduce a movable irrigation system to ensure the survival of seedlings during the dry season, further enhancing the resilience of the forest.
The second phase will also focus on education and awareness, with more than 700 secondary school students from local communities directly participating in conservation activities. These students will plant 7,200 trees in various locations, including at schools, in their home gardens, and within Masingini Forest itself. The students will also receive education on sustainable practices and forest conservation, which will help them become stewards of the environment in the future.
Strengthening Forest Protection and Community Engagement
The protection of Masingini Forest remains a central component of the project’s goals. To ensure the long-term security of the forest, the Forest Protection Unit will be established, engaging members from 13 surrounding communities. These trained community members will patrol the forest boundaries, which span 55,500 square meters, helping to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and land encroachment.
In addition to forest protection, the project will support 13 local communities in developing sustainable crafts and souvenirs made from natural materials. By providing training in product development and marketing, the TUI Care Foundation aims to create alternative livelihoods for local families and reduce the pressure on the forest. This initiative ties into the broader goal of promoting eco-tourism and community-based tourism.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
TUI Forest Zanzibar is also focused on developing eco-tourism as a means of promoting sustainable land use. The project includes the creation of nature-based tourism activities, such as walking trails, cycling routes, and guided tours that will highlight the island’s local culture and natural heritage. These activities will not only support the island’s tourism industry but also create new income opportunities for local communities, thereby helping to protect the forest while providing economic benefits.
TUI Care Foundation’s Commitment to Reforestation and Sustainable Practices
The launch of this new phase of the TUI Forest project coincides with Forest February, an initiative by the TUI Care Foundation that emphasizes the importance of global reforestation efforts. This month-long campaign brings together various reforestation projects worldwide to highlight the urgent need for sustainable forest management and the role forests play in mitigating climate change. Through activities such as planting native trees and educating communities on reforestation and sustainable agro-forestry, the TUI Care Foundation is working to create lasting solutions that safeguard biodiversity and forest ecosystems for future generations.
Ensuring a Sustainable Future for Zanzibar’s Forests
As the TUI Forest Zanzibar project enters its second phase, the TUI Care Foundation is laying the groundwork for the continued protection and restoration of the island’s vital ecosystems. By increasing community engagement, supporting eco-tourism initiatives, and scaling up reforestation efforts, the foundation is not only helping to protect Masingini Forest but also creating a model for sustainable tourism and conservation in Zanzibar and beyond.
With more than 67,000 trees to be planted, increased community involvement, and enhanced forest protection measures, this phase of the project marks an important step toward ensuring the long-term sustainability of Zanzibar’s natural resources and biodiversity. The TUI Care Foundation’s efforts, supported by local communities and stakeholders, will help create a more resilient and sustainable future for Zanzibar’s forests, its wildlife, and its people.
Source: © TUI Group
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