Kikonda Forest Reserve

Between 2002 and 2020, over 10,000 hectares of degraded land have been reforested with more than 8 million trees, contributing to the sequestration of more than 1 million tons of CO₂.

Planted forest alternate with areas where natural regeneration of trees and shrubs is protected. The project forms a mosaic of biodiversity in a landscape dominated by agriculture. Water balance and soil fertility are carefully managed to ensure the long-term existence of the forest. About one-fifth of the area is exempt from cultivation and has been placed under protection as a biodiversity corridor. The Kikonda Forest Reserve is home to more than 120 bird species, 39 of which are at risk of extinction.

The project covers an area the size of more than 10,000 soccer fields and provides a livelihood for over 600 people and their families. All employees receive professional training. In addition to a secure income for the workers, the population benefits from the voluntary services, like provision of accommodation for employees, medical care, support for local schools and a long-term program to increase agricultural productivity & improvement of water supply.