Tanzanians urged to plant trees to preserve Mount Kilimanjaro’s ice cap
What you need to know:
- The campaign comes in response to mounting concerns over the accelerated melting of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, largely attributed to global warming.
Dar es Salaam. In a bid to conserve Mount Kilimanjaro’s fragile environment, particularly its rapidly diminishing ice cap and surrounding forests, Tanzanians have been called upon to plant approximately one billion trees as part of a long-term environmental protection initiative.
The campaign comes in response to mounting concerns over the accelerated melting of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, largely attributed to global warming.
Experts have warned that, if no action is taken, the mountain’s iconic ice fields could disappear entirely within the next five decades.
Speaking at the launch of the awareness initiative, executive director of the Nessa Foundation – one of the NGOs involved in the Mount Kilimanjaro reforestation - Ms Deborah Nyakisinda, said the project aims to plant one billion trees by 2050. At present, around two million trees are planted each year.
Launched in 2021, the campaign—Save Mount Kilimanjaro—will feature a symbolic awareness trek on May 17, 2025, starting from Marangu Gate. The event is expected to be officiated by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa.
“We are calling on all Tanzanians to take part in this national initiative to save Mount Kilimanjaro by planting trees,” said Ms Nyakisinda. “Our initial focus is on regions surrounding the mountain—Manyara, Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Tanga. By protecting these areas, we safeguard the ice.”
She highlighted the crucial role of the glacier in supplying water, purifying air and supporting the tourism industry.
Ms Nyakisinda urged citizens to participate in the upcoming trek, which also aims to promote domestic tourism.
“We need the support of all stakeholders to plant, nurture and sustain these trees.”
Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) senior conservation officer, Ms Haika Bayona, echoed the need to restore and maintain ecosystems around protected areas such as Mount Kilimanjaro.
She noted that tree planting would not only protect the environment but also enhance the mountain’s appeal to tourists.
“We are currently running a campaign encouraging the public to vote for Mount Kilimanjaro as Africa’s top destination and Best Mountain,” said Ms Bayona. “Conservation efforts like this only add to the mountain’s value. Let us protect and celebrate our natural heritage.”
