Where FOLT concentrated during its inception phase on tree planting on behalf of organizations like Trees for the Future and Earthday, since 2023 FOLT has moved beyond just tree planting and has been working on the successful implementation of two long-term projects in the region.
1. Mahale Mountains Agroforestry Project (WeForest)
Friends of Lake Tanganyika (FOLT) and WeForest (Belgium) have partnered to launch the Mahale Mountains Agroforestry Project in Tanzania’s Uvinza District. This initiative aims to reduce pressure on natural forests while improving livelihoods for smallholder farmers through agroforestry and environmental education.
Over six years, the project will support 1,500 farmers in restoring degraded land by planting three million trees across 1,500 hectares. By integrating agroforestry, communities will enhance food security, develop sustainable value chains, and contribute to conservation efforts.
FOLT leads on-the-ground implementation, ensuring community engagement and compliance with best practices, while WeForest provides technical and programmatic support. The partnership prioritizes transparency, accountability, and impact measurement, with regular monitoring, reporting, and independent evaluations to ensure long-term success.
2. Agroforestry Carbon Offset Project (VNV Advisory)
Friends of Lake Tanganyika (FOLT) and Value Network Ventures (VNV, India) have partnered to develop an agroforestry carbon offset project in Tanzania. The initiative aims to restore degraded land, enhance biodiversity, and generate verified carbon credits by promoting sustainable tree planting and reforestation.
The project covers 2,500 hectares and integrates agroforestry and sustainable land-use practices, benefiting local communities while contributing to global climate action. VNV leads project financing, technical oversight, and carbon credit certification, while FOLT ensures on-the-ground implementation, farmer engagement, and long-term forest management.
By adhering to recognized international carbon standards, the project creates measurable environmental and economic benefits, supporting both climate resilience and local livelihoods.
3. Live, Fair & Transparent Tree planting (Planting on Demand)
Friends of Lake Tanganyika (FOLT) and Planting on Demand (The Netherlands) are collaborating to bring live tree planting sessions to smallholder farms along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. This initiative shifts the focus from traditional fundraising to the farmers and planters themselves, highlighting the people doing the work on the ground.
Through live sessions, supporters can connect directly with the planting team, gaining real-time insight into how, for whom, and why these trees are being planted. By prioritizing food-producing trees, the project ensures long-term impact without the need for extensive monitoring—farmers naturally tend to trees that provide sustenance and income.
Follow Planting on Demand’s calendar or visit their YouTube channel to see their work in action.