In an effort to combat deforestation, restore ecosystems, and promote climate resilience, Emilia Hatendi, coordinator for the Centre for the Development of Women and Children (CDWC), has embarked on a groundbreaking indigenous trees initiative in Zimbabwe.
The project, which focuses on reforestation through the planting of drought-resistant indigenous trees, aims to address both environmental and socio-economic challenges in rural communities. In an interview, Hatendi spoke about the project’s long-term vision which she said was aimed at informing conservation strategies.
“Our long-term goal is to promote the local consumption of indigenous seeds, retain them in their natural habitats, and prevent over-exploitation. We aim to map indigenous tree species across the country and create a database to inform conservation strategies. Ultimately, we hope to create local climate zones through widespread reforestation, leading to cooler temperatures, more rainfall, and better biodiversity, thereby reducing the impact of climate change on local communities,” Hatendi said
The project, which spans Makoni District in Manicaland and Tsholotsho District in Matabeleland North, works closely with rural women farmers who are disproportionately affected by climate change.
These women, who depend on rain-fed agriculture, have seen their livelihoods threatened by prolonged droughts and extreme weather conditions. Through the reforestation of indigenous fruit trees, Hatendi’s initiative aims to build community resilience while protecting natural resources. “Indigenous trees are resilient to climate changes and thrive naturally in local soils. They require less water and maintenance, making them ideal for restoring ecosystems,” Hatendi said.
She added “These trees provide food and habitats for both domestic and wild animals. By increasing tree cover, the project fights deforestation, promotes biodiversity, and guards against forest fires, contributing to a healthier, balanced environment.”
By planting and nurturing these trees, the initiative hopes to not only preserve species that are nearing extinction but also create “food forests”—a vital source of nutrition for communities facing food insecurity. These forests, filled with drought-resistant species, will serve as both an environmental safeguard and a potential income stream for the women involved.
“The project is reviving indigenous trees nearing extinction, reversing deforestation, and restoring ecosystems. By establishing food forests, rural women can build climate resilience, as these trees provide alternative livelihoods. The drought-resistant species will offer food and nutrition during tough times, and the project will improve women’s environmental rights and participation in climate change discussions,” Hatendi said.
She said CDWC is working to raise awareness of the importance of indigenous trees through community-based education, school programs, and even radio broadcasts.
“CDWC provides community-based education on the importance of indigenous trees. We are exploring partnerships with radio stations to reach a wider audience. We also run weekly blogs as part of our Indigenous Trees Campaign, hold popular education sessions in schools, and engage communities in discussions on climate change, focusing on feminist alternatives and environmental protection,” Hatendi said.
