Eat to Plant, Plant to eat

Chibombo People's Climate Action has kicked off a bold and inspiring initiative — Eat to Plant, Plant to Eat — a project to bring life back to the bare roadsides of the area.

For years, the trees lining village roads have been cut down, leaving the earth exposed and the air dry. This project is turning that around — one tree at a time. The mission: to replant these stretches with fruit-bearing trees that not only restore shade and greenery but also provide food for people living nearby.

Each village along the main roads will receive fruit trees to nurture — and with them, the responsibility to care for and protect them as they grow. 250 local farmers are being trained agroforestry and being encouraged to become“Eat to Plant and Plant to Eat Champions.”

With our support the project is well under way. Seedlings and planting trays have been funded, and the numbers are growing:

• 2,115 avocado seeds have already sprouted,

• 1,137 lemon seeds and 765 guava seeds are planted and awaiting germination — though the colder weather has slowed their progress,

• Mangos will be planted when they become available.

Looking ahead, CPCA aims to grow 20,000 fruit tree seedlings of various types, all ready for distribution in time for the rainy season in November 2025. This isn’t just about trees — it’s about food security, soil improvement, community pride, and restoring the bond between people and trees.