This year, Trees for the Future (TREES) proudly marks 35 years of transforming landscapes, restoring ecosystems, and empowering farming communities. Since 1989, TREES has worked to make a lasting impact on the lives of smallholder farmers, and today that vision has evolved into something far greater, touching millions of lives across sub-Saharan Africa. At the heart of TREES’ mission is a commitment to farmer equity and localization, ensuring that the needs and knowledge of farmers are prioritized every step of the way.
The Forest Garden Approach: A Holistic Solution
The Forest Garden Approach (FGA) has been the driving force behind TREES’ impact. After years of testing different methods, the FGA proved to be the most effective for creating lasting change. This holistic approach not only plants trees but also equips farmers with the knowledge, seeds, and tools to transform their land into thriving, biodiverse ecosystems. By centering local expertise and ensuring that farmers lead the way, TREES has planted over 350 million trees and restored more than 80,000 hectares of degraded land.
More Than Just Trees: Building Resilient Communities
TREES’ work goes beyond reforestation—it’s about **creating sustainable change**. Farmers in the program have transformed barren fields into productive Forest Gardens: securing food, increasing income, and improving the health of their families. Each tree planted represents more than environmental restoration—it symbolizes a brighter, more resilient future for farming communities.
Lasting Partnerships and Farmer-First Solutions
The true power of TREES’ work lies in its long-term partnerships with farmers, built on mutual respect and collaboration. By providing farmers with the tools and training they need to cultivate Forest Gardens, TREES ensures that these communities will continue to thrive long after the project has ended. The commitment to equity and sustainable development creates a ripple effect, transforming not just individual farms but entire communities.
Celebrating 35 Years of Impact
As TREES celebrates this significant milestone, we reflect on the incredible lives changed, landscapes restored, and communities that have flourished over the past 35 years. It’s a legacy of growth and transformation that will continue for decades to come. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our donors and partners—thank you for helping us make a lasting impact.
Together, we look forward to planting more seeds of change and empowering even more farmers as we continue this journey. Here’s to the next 35 years!