From Gray to Green 1 Day Cultural & Eco Tour

A project that aims to plant 10,000 trees

Tree planting is the major activity of the day. In coordination with local Maasai villagers our guests will be helping to plant up to 25 trees per person to help achieve stabilisation of the land from severe erosion. And this is stage 1, where it has been anticipated that 10,000 trees will occupy the site prior to the planning of native Acacia trees found on the African savanna.

The area where the planting takes place is in a valley where, when it rains, massive amounts of water have scoured the land and left huge furrows. The herding Maasai have lost a significant amount of their land. Drainage works by the government is addressing the flow of uncontrolled water, but now it’s the community’s effort which is required. Planting trees will help stabilise and mitigate the loss of further lands to erosion. The species of trees which are required has already been identified and the project will progress in stages. On a holiday experience it is unlikely that many people have the opportunity to provide support in such a practical way to an indigenous community such as the Maasai.

Helping in this endeavour will be young Maasai men and women who One Horizon has employed to dig the holes and to ensure that there is enough water to water the trees. Getting the young Maasai involved also helps build their ownership of the project at the same time as providing an income. And whilst the planting goes on, our Maasai helpers will no doubt be singing and dancing their way through the day. And when we take a break, we will retreat to the village for refreshments and some fun. And that involves demonstrations of some of the skills that the Maasai that helps them navigate their lives.