In a bold step toward environmental restoration and community empowerment, the Rural Development Counsellor for Christian Churches in Africa (RURCON) has commenced 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) under its Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP).
The project targets 400 households, each planting at least six economic trees—mainly avocado seedlings—aimed at both environmental and economic recovery in communities previously ravaged by violent conflict and natural disasters.
At the ceremonial tree planting held in Maiyanga on Tuesday, August 5, the Director General of the Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), Mr. Samuel Dapiya, described 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, emphasized that the project goes beyond greening the environment—it also aims to improve food security and economic well-being.
“These are not just trees; they are fruit-bearing trees that will bring economic benefits to families. 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,” she stated.
In addition to tree planting, the project includes training on climate-smart agriculture, organic farming techniques, and the production of eco-friendly fuel alternatives such as charcoal briquettes and economic cooking stoves. These are intended to reduce deforestation and improve soil health, thereby creating a sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
Director of Programmes at RURCON, Mr. Gado Seth Yashim, explained that 1,500 avocado seedlings were being distributed to each community, with an accountability measure requiring replacement of any dead trees with eight new ones.
“These trees are both environmental assets and economic tools,” Yashim said. “We want communities to take ownership, not just by planting but also 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 kicked off with a public awareness drive in Maikatako market using banners, flyers, and community jingles. The program will extend to neighboring communities in the coming days.
Traditional leader Amos Jalang commended the project, calling it “timely and impactful,” noting that the economic trees will help revive local livelihoods.
Local beneficiaries, including Nanlop Enoch and Mashat Damla Abraham, expressed gratitude, stating that the trees would not only serve as food sources but also act as wind barriers and long-term environmental assets for their communities.
Ward Councillor of Mandar Ward, Hon. Mahwash Tudu Ajasco, also praised RURCON and UNDP for rekindling hope in the affected communities.
“This kind of intervention doesn’t just plant trees; it plants faith back into the hearts of our people,” he said.
As the project rolls out, RURCON and its partners reaffirm their commitment to environmental restoration, community resilience, and sustainable livelihoods across Plateau State.
