Forest cover in Lake Tana catchment area has fallen since 1980 from 40% cover to just 1%. The consequences include water and wind erosion, siltation in the lake, and significant loss of biodiversity, including a decline in honey bees. Indigenous tree species have been replaced by non-native Eucalyptus, which cause water courses to dry-up. 25% of the population live in chronic poverty. Livelihood activities are incompatible with sustainable development, creating a bleak future for the youth.

We will restore an area of degraded forest in Lake Tana basin. Once protected, natural forest will re-grow, as proven by recent similar work. As the area is restored, a wealth of natural resources will return. Honey bees will re-populate the area quickly and will deliver immediate financial benefits for local people. We will provide training in beekeeping, and enable youth to keep bees, harvest and sell honey. They will experience tangible income benefit from bees and the re-wilding process