How time flies – we’ve planted almost 50,000 new trees since our last project update! Here’s a little overview of the situation on the ground in Shebedino.

That’s what’s happening in our afforestation project

By now, all seedlings are planted and so activities in the Green Ethiopia nurseries have been suspended for the time being. In January, the preparations for the production of the seedlings, which are to be planted in July 2023, begin with making seed beds, mixing the soil and filling the pots. In addition, the seeds of slow-growing trees, which will remain in the nursery for six to seven months, are planted ahead of the other ones.

In the reforestation area, grass is growing between the trees and the whole area is looking very green after the rainy season. The grass will soon be mowed and then used as animal feed. In the afforestation areas of previous years, the grass has grown very tall, so that it can be sold for roofing, or used for weaving and tying mats and other household items. Guarding now becomes very important, as livestock graze on the harvested grain fields nearby, and under no circumstances are they allowed to eat the young seedlings.

The new afforestation area for 2023 will be determined soon as well and activities there discussed with the community. Then, terracing as well as digging ditches and planting holes will begin in the spring. In the meantime, the women also pursue other activities that they were able to bring to life thanks to the successes of recent years (e.g. weaving, binding or growing and caring for fruit trees).