July 2025
In 2025, our reforestation initiative, funded by the NFI Climate Fund, focused on the northwest and southwest regions of the country. The project aimed to promote climate awareness and enhance food security through fruit tree planting, involving both youth and adults in targeted communities.
Areas of implementation
- Pilot Villages: Merina Sine Ndiaye, Fordiokh, Keur Ngor
- Additional Locations:
- Hamlets: Sékitaré, Tébéne, Keur Aly S Diaw, Keur Bam, Keur Bocar
- Horticultural Training Center of Thieppe (where a new Naturefriends group has been created)
PROJEKT
REPORT
Tree distribution and planting
Between 22 May – 1 June, together with local communities, we planted 3,150 fruit trees — mango, lemon, cashew, and sapodilla — chosen not just for their resilience to climate change, but for their promise to feed and sustain.
Children leading the way: Educational workshops with pupils
In each pilot village, the sound of laughter echoed beneath shaded trees as children gathered for something special: their first climate workshop in nature’s classroom.
Naturefriends Senegal (ASAN) conducted one outdoor training workshop for elementary school pupils (aged 11–13), with 30 participants per village, divided into three working groups.
The workshop included the following components:
- Climate change awareness-building:
Grouped into teams, each child had a voice. They discussed climate change, its causes and effects, and what they — as future stewards of the land — could do about it. Presidents were elected, reporters took notes, and the results of their reflections were shared proudly with peers. While their understanding was still taking shape, their curiosity was vivid and alive. Teachers and parents were encouraged to continue nurturing this growing awareness.
- Plant production techniques
Next came the hands-on learning. With the help of skilled technicians, the children learned how to prepare potting soil, sow seeds, repot seedlings, and care for young plants. By the end of each session, the pupils were not just students — they were newly appointed tree guardians, each committed to protecting the trees planted in their homes and villages.
Strengthening the engagement of adults and youth
Ahead of each planting day, discussions were held with adults and young people in all villages. In these informal gatherings, technicians shared practical advice: how to water and care for seedlings, dig basins, prune properly, and use natural solutions to keep pests away.
These sessions weren’t just about technique — they were about ownership. Every household, every elder, every youth who listened became a co-steward of the trees planted. The result was a stronger, more sustainable foundation for lasting change.
Looking back, the 2025 Fruit Tree Planting Day wasn’t only about trees. It was about connection — to the land, to knowledge, and to each other. It strengthened our Naturefriends network, sparked new interest in climate action among children, and empowered communities with both tools and hope.
We are proud to say that this project was a success — and even more proud to share it with all donors. On behalf of every child who planted a seed, every elder who shared wisdom, and every village that welcomed us with open arms, we extend our deepest gratitude to the donors of the Naturefriends Climate Fund.
Together, we’ve planted more than trees — we’ve planted the roots of a healthier, greener, and bluer planet.
Mamadou Mbodji
You can find more information about the Tree Sponsorships project here…