Children and youth in Bangourain of the Mount Mbam Area in Cameroon’s West Region have embarked on a hands-on tree-planting initiative aimed at fostering climate adaptation and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Under the auspices of the Divisional Officer of Bangourain, Ndi Jules Patrick, nearly 300 ornamental and medicinal trees are being planted across schools, hospitals, administrative areas, and other public spaces. The initiative forms part of the annual EcoKids Program implemented by Voice of Nature (VoNat) and Meg Wah (My Earth) , with support from the Earth Rising Foundation.
According to the Executive Director of VoNat, Ndimuh Bertrand Shancho, children are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts but often left our from climate solutions efforts. “We had a climate education session to teach the kids about climate change and some practical actions they can take to mitigate its impact in their communities. They demonstrated great interest in tree planting, and we are currently mentoring them on raising and planting trees as one of the solutions to the climate challenges in their area,” he said.
During the exercise, the EcoKids Team trained participants aged 12 to 18 on proper planting techniques and environmental stewardship. Guided by facilitators, the youngsters planted species such as Callistemon (Callistemon spp.) and Pygeum (Prunus Africana), valued for their ornamental, medicinal, and ecological benefits. Some students even took seedlings home to extend the effort to their families and schools.
For many, it was their first time planting trees. “This is my first time engaging in a tree-planting exercise. We came to show our community a good example, to plant trees and protect our environment. People are cutting trees without replanting, and this is bad for birds, animals, and even for us who need trees for shade and oxygen,” said Saidou Zulkifli , one of the participating youths.
The Bangourain Council and Government Bilingual High School (GBHS) Bangourain, key partners in the project, pledged to ensure the survival of the planted trees. “This exercise is good for the environment. We will take all necessary measures to protect the trees from stray animals during the dry season. Our environment is becoming like a desert with no trees to shield us from the scorching sun, this planting is timely.” said Pechangou Youchawou from the Bangourain Council.
Through EcoKids , VoNat and Meg Wah are not only planting trees but also nurturing a generation of young climate champions, proving that when children are empowered with knowledge and tools, they can lead the way toward a greener and more climate-resilient future.