Environmental Conservation Efforts Led by Students from Secondary Schools Around the Eastern Arc Mountains

Environmental conservation has become a key focus for students from secondary schools around the Eastern Arc Mountains, as they lead initiatives aimed at raising awareness and protecting their natural surroundings. With support from the Eastern Arc Mountains Conservation Endowment Fund (EAMCEF), schools like Ngai Secondary in Mlimba and Mseko Primary in Korogwe are making significant strides in tree planting, encouraging students to become stewards of the environment and share these conservation values with their communities. These efforts have contributed to the protection of vital areas like the Uzungwa Scarp and Amani Nature Forest Reserves.

At Mbingu Secondary School, students have planted 148 mango trees since 2022, creating a reliable source of fresh produce while also educating their peers about the importance of environmental conservation. This initiative not only provides food but also serves as an outdoor classroom, connecting students with the nearby Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve. Similarly, Ngai Secondary has planted over 1,000 trees, combining fruit and shade trees to enhance study spaces and promote sustainable practices.

In Kwa Gunda Village, Mseko Primary School, located near the Amani Nature Forest Reserve, focuses on planting shade trees that improve the learning environment and provide much-needed relief from the sun. For these students, the forest reserve is crucial for water supply and agricultural stability, making environmental conservation a key part of their daily lives. These tree-planting initiatives empower students to understand the deep connection between forest preservation and the well-being of their communities.

Through these efforts, students are not only learning about environmental conservation but also advocating for sustainable practices that will ensure a healthy ecosystem for future generations.