International Mountain Day: Restoring Mountain Ecosystems!

International Mountain Day, celebrated every year on December 1, shines a spotlight on the urgent need to protect and restore mountain ecosystems. The 2024 International Mountain Day theme is “Restoring Mountain Ecosystems” which underscores the pressing need to safeguard our majestic landscapes from climate change and unsustainable practices.

As #EAMCEF joins the global celebration of this day, we take pride in restoring 3,429 hectares of the Eastern Arc Mountains #EAMs previously degraded by alluvial gold mining. By planting over 144,000 indigenous trees, we have contributed to ecosystem restoration, enhanced biodiversity, and supported efforts to mitigate climate change.

The #EAMs are a remarkable natural treasure, often called the “Galápagos of Africa” for their rich biodiversity and unique species found nowhere else on Earth. With misty hiking trails, colorful bird species, rare animals, stunning waterfalls, and serene valleys, the #EAMs provide spectacular scenery and exceptional ecotourism experiences.

Beyond their beauty, the #EAMs are vital for life, supplying clean water through rivers like the Pangani, Ruvu, Wami, Rufiji, Kilombero, and Great Ruaha for domestic use, agriculture, hydropower, and industry. They also play a critical role in carbon sequestration and serve as sacred cultural sites, providing spiritual inspiration for many communities.

On this International Mountain Day, let’s protect these treasures for future generations. Please share your Mountain adventures and tag us to celebrate these incredible natural wonders!