In the remote Magu District, within the village of Kinango, Tanzania, subsistence farmers face threats to their livelihoods due to unstable weather and years of land degradation. However, one man chose to change this trend. Abeli Ncheye, a quiet yet resolute smallholder farmer, found himself on barren land. His farm was sparse, and each rainy season further entrenched gullies into the earth. It seemed there was no promising future ahead.
Abeli’s biggest challenge was land degradation caused by overgrazing, erosion, and a lack of tree cover. His farm had little protection from strong winds and scorching sun, and animals often trespassed, destroying what little vegetation remained. But with training, seedlings management, and mentorship from Trees for the Future, Abeli began applying forest garden techniques that offered more than just farming—they offered restoration.
Abeli planted over 2,000 trees, including fast-growing green wall varieties that now serve as a live fence for his farm. This fence shields the farm from grazing animals, successfully safeguarding their crops and young trees for the first time in years.
In this sanctuary, Abeli has planted nitrogen-fixing trees such as gricidia and pigeon pea, fruit trees such as papaya and mango, and other vegetables to improve soil fertility and water levels. His previously fractured and unyielding earth is now soft, mulched, and alive with organic materials. Where once only dry dust wafted, the area now smells of growth and life.
Abeli’s family now enjoys a steady supply of nutritious vegetables from their own garden such as spinach, onion, and okra, providing both food for the family. Though income has not yet been a major outcome but being just the first-year real success has been environmental resilience. Erosion has drastically reduced in his land. The trees are growing tall, and with them, so is Abeli’s hope.
His neighbors have begun to take notice. They often visit to admire the dense green wall surrounding his property and inquire about his success in keeping animals out. Abeli beams, filled with pride not only for his accomplishments but also for the knowledge he has gained.