In a significant move to restore the environment and strengthen community resilience, the Rural Development Counsellor for Christian Churches in Africa (RURCON) has launched a large-scale tree planting project in Maiyanga and Butura Company communities of Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State.

The initiative is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP). Targeting 400 households, each family will plant at least six economic trees—primarily avocado seedlings—marking a dual effort toward environmental regeneration and economic empowerment in communities affected by past conflict and climate-related challenges.

At the ceremonial launch held in Maiyanga on Tuesday, August 5, the Director General of the Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), Mr. Samuel Dapiya, hailed the initiative as a “symbol of hope.”

“Beyond the planting of trees, this is about restoring life and livelihoods,” Dapiya said. “The environmental challenges here—from erosion caused by mining to recurring windstorms—require immediate and sustainable solutions. These trees will serve as windbreakers, protect biodiversity, improve air quality, and most importantly, inspire resilience in a community that has suffered so much.”

RURCON’s Executive Director, Mrs. Dinatu Ayizat, explained that the project was designed not only to green the environment but also to improve food security and economic stability.

“These are not just trees; they are fruit-bearing trees that will bring economic benefits to families,” Ayizat said. “We identified these communities following the 2023 Christmas attacks, which left many homes destroyed and the environment degraded. This initiative is our way of helping them rebuild—environmentally and economically.”

The tree planting effort is part of a broader package that includes training in climate-smart agriculture, organic farming, and the production of eco-friendly fuel alternatives like charcoal briquettes and energy-efficient cooking stoves. These interventions aim to combat deforestation, improve soil health, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

RURCON’s Director of Programmes, Mr. Gado Seth Yashim, revealed that 1,500 avocado seedlings were distributed to each of the participating communities. To ensure sustainability, an accountability framework has been introduced, requiring the replacement of any dead seedling with eight new ones.

“These trees are both environmental assets and economic tools,” Yashim stated. “We want communities to take ownership, not just by planting but by nurturing them. Alongside this, we’ll be introducing organic composting, irrigation techniques, agroforestry, and livestock management as part of a comprehensive support package.”

The campaign began with a public awareness drive in Maikatako market, using banners, flyers, and community radio jingles to educate residents about the importance of the project. It is expected to extend to neighboring communities in the coming weeks.

Traditional leader Mr. Amos Jalang described the initiative as “timely and impactful,” stressing that the economic trees would contribute significantly to reviving local livelihoods.

Local residents, including Nanlop Enoch and Mashat Damla Abraham, expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that the trees would not only serve as sources of food but also help prevent wind damage and enhance environmental sustainability.

Ward Councillor of Mandar Ward, Hon. Mahwash Tudu Ajasco, also praised RURCON and its partners for rekindling hope in the area.

“This kind of intervention doesn’t just plant trees; it plants faith back into the hearts of our people,” he said.

As the project progresses, RURCON and its partners have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental restoration, sustainable agriculture, and long-term community development across Plateau State.