We're excited to share the latest developments from the Hongera Reforestation Project, where our commitment to restoring Kenya's natural landscapes is progressing with great promise. This large-scale nature-based project aims to restore previously forested areas that have been affected by human activities by planting more than 10 million trees.
Close-up of a tree seedling during the monitoring process. Hongera Reforestation Project, DGB.
As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the success and sustainability of this project, we have implemented a comprehensive monitoring process and work with 11,000 small-scale farmers to ensure our trees are growing and thriving. This update provides an inside look at how we are tracking our progress and maintaining the health and vitality of the newly planted areas.
When does monitoring begin?
The monitoring process kicks off almost immediately after the rainy season, approximately a month after the new trees have been planted. All farms and lands where trees have been planted are visited and monitoring is done in consultation with the small-scale farmer. This timing and collaboration are critical as they allow us to assess the early stages of tree growth and address any challenges promptly.
Read more: The Hongera Reforestation journey unfolds in 2024
How frequently is monitoring done?
To ensure thorough oversight, monitoring is conducted every month, with detailed reports compiled every quarter. These regular monitoring intervals allow us to stay on top of the project and trees' development, ensuring that any issues are identified and addressed in a timely manner.
DGB team members during tree monitoring. Hongera Reforestation Project, DGB.
Who is involved in the monitoring?
Our dedicated field personnel, including local ambassadors, play a crucial role in the monitoring process. These ambassadors, deeply rooted in the community, are particularly effective in engaging with the farmers and ensuring that our standards are met and that the project continues to align with environmental and community goals.
Read more: The rich tapestry of trees in DGB’s reforestation projects: empowering local communities
What do we monitor?
During each monitoring session, we evaluate several key factors:
- Survival rate: We ensure that the trees planted are thriving and reaching maturity.
- Pests and diseases: We identify any threats to the health of the trees and take necessary actions to mitigate them.
- Farm hygiene: We check for weeds and overall farm health to promote optimal growth conditions. Our ambassadors also provide valuable recommendations to the farmers based on their findings, such as implementing mulching techniques to conserve moisture and support tree growth.
Top view of tree seedlings in one of our nurseries. Hongera Reforestation Project, DGB.
If any aspect of the project does not meet our standards, our ambassadors provide immediate recommendations, empowering local farmers to take action and ensure the continued success of the project.
Read more: The power of DGB Group’s high-quality carbon projects in Kenya
What is the impact of monitoring on the overall reforestation process?
Monitoring is more than just a routine check; it's a vital component of our reforestation/afforestation initiatives to ensure that these efforts are tangible, verifiable, and impactful. It allows us to:
- Track the size of the planted area in hectares and acres.
- Record the number and species of trees planted.
- Monitor growth rates to assess the health and progress of the reforestation effort.
- Plan future actions and opportunities for scale to ensure long-term success.
Read more: What makes DGB’s reforestation projects unique?
A glimpse into the bigger picture
The Hongera Reforestation Project is not just about planting trees—it's about nurturing a future where nature and communities flourish together. By rehabilitating areas affected by environmental degradation, we're laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future where the community can benefit from the crops of these trees along with their many other benefits. This project demonstrates how environmental conservation can be intertwined with community empowerment and economic revitalisation.
Aerial view of an area that was monitored during the process. Hongera Reforestation Project, DGB.
As we advance towards our ambitious 41-year vision, the completion of our first planting season earlier this year marks a significant milestone. But this is just the beginning. Each tree planted is a step towards a legacy of environmental stewardship, where the benefits are reaped not only by nature but also by the people who depend on it.
We invite you to continue following the progress of our impactful projects. Together, we can build a future where the harmony between humanity and the environment is restored, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable world for generations to come.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey of restoration and renewal.
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