Ukijani: Greening Tanzania’s future
IN the heart of Tanzania’s arid landscapes, a quiet revolution is underway.
A project called Ukijani, or “green” in Swahili, is transforming lives and landscapes. Once barren lands are now blooming with life, thanks to the empowerment of women and youth.
This initiative, funded by Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, is breathing new life into the regions of Singida and Simiyu, fostering sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
Among those empowered by Ukijani are Zubeda Abraham, a resilient woman from Iglasoni village in Singida and Charles Masanja from Meatu District in Simiyu Region.
Both were unknowingly surrounded by untapped potential, struggling to improve their lives and their environment.
Through Ukijani, they’ve joined forces to combat poverty and environmental degradation. Zubeda and Masanja, like many others worldwide, grappled with a critical challenge: how to balance human development with environmental preservation. This delicate equilibrium is essential for sustaining life on Earth.
The Ukijani project, managed by Helvetas, addresses this challenge headon. By implementing sustainable practices, the project empowers communities to produce food and generate income while safeguarding the natural environment.
ALSO READ: EU launches green, smart cities SASA programme in Pemba
Zubeda and Masanja, along with other participants, have learned valuable techniques such as organic farming, soil conservation, and water harvesting. These practices have not only increased their yields but also improved the overall health of the land.
By adopting sustainable methods, they are ensuring a greener future for generations to come. The Ukijani project aims to empower women and communities in the Singida and Simiyu regions by increasing economic opportunities, fostering knowledge sharing, and promoting leadership.
The project specifically targets women and youth, aiming to reach 5,000 direct beneficiaries and 25,000 indirect beneficiaries. By training 100 community members as service providers, the project ensures long-term sustainability and empowers local expertise.
Zubeda, a beneficiary and service provider, has undergone extensive training in financial literacy, agroforestry, and sustainable farming practices. She has mastered the art of producing organic fertiliser using locally available resources, such as farm waste.
“I’ve significantly improved my one-acre agroforestry farm by using organic methods,” Zubeda explains.
“This approach priorities soil health, consumer well-being, and environmental sustainability. I’ve learned to create natural, chemical-free fertilisers and utilise local resources to enhance soil fertility,” she says.
Zubeda’s transformation is remarkable. Through the Ukijani project, she has learned to view waste as a valuable resource. She now upcycles farm waste into organic fertiliser, improving soil health and reducing reliance on harmful chemicals.
“I’ve gained confidence and skills through entrepreneurship training,” Zubeda says.
“I’m empowered to educate my community about organic farming and the dangers of chemical fertilisers. We can restore degraded land and reduce production costs by using natural methods,” she says.
Zubeda’s agroforestry garden has become a source of both food and medicine. By integrating diverse plant species, she can cultivate medicinal herbs alongside crops and fodder for livestock. This integrated approach has significantly improved her family’s food security and overall well-being.
“My life has transformed,” Zubeda shares.
“I’m now financially stable and can support my family. It’s all thanks to the training I received from Helvetas through the Ukijani project. They’ve opened my eyes to the possibilities around me.” Masanja, like Zubeda, has also undergone a significant transformation.
Before joining Ukijani, he aspired to be an environmentalist and co-founded the Green Ambassadors group, focused on tree planting.
However, they lacked the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve their goals. After joining Ukijani, Masanja gained expertise in organic farming, natural fertilisers, animal husbandry, and other sustainable practices.
“We didn’t realise the full potential of environmental conservation until we joined Ukijani. Now, we have the knowledge and skills to make a real difference,” he says.
The Green Ambassadors now truly live up to their name. They actively promote sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, sharing their knowledge with others. By initiating their own tree-planting project, they’ve maximised the benefits gained from Ukijani.
ALSO READ: Tanga UWASA lists 53bn/- green bond for water solutions
“The project has not only improved our personal finances but also benefited our entire community,” Masanja explains.
“Simiyu region, especially Meatu district, is often lacking in trees. As community ambassadors, we’re leading a campaign to plant trees and encourage youth and women to embrace sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.” Beyond individual transformation, Ukijani is fostering a sense of community and collective action.
By organising farmers into groups, the project empowers them to share knowledge, resources, and support. Together, they are creating a more resilient and sustainable future for their communities.
The impact of Ukijani extends beyond the immediate benefits to individuals and communities. By promoting sustainable practices and empowering local leaders, the project is contributing to broader environmental goals, such as combating climate change and biodiversity loss.
As the world grapples with these challenges, initiatives like Ukijani offer hope and inspiration. The success of the Ukijani project highlights the potential of community-driven initiatives to address pressing environmental and social issues.
By investing in local knowledge and empowering individuals, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. As the Ukijani project continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the enduring spirit of hope.
By working together, we can overcome challenges, protect our planet, and build a brighter future for all. The Ukijani project is more than just a development initiative; it’s a movement.
As the project continues to expand its reach, it inspires hope and empowers communities across Tanzania. By sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration and promoting sustainable practices, Ukijani is shaping a greener and more prosperous future for all.
