Dar es Salaam, October 4, 2025 — A new study has revealed that planting more trees across Tanzania could help protect millions of farmers from the growing threat of extreme heat caused by climate change.
According to the research, increasing tree cover in farming areas can reduce temperatures, protect crops, and create healthier working conditions for rural communities.
Speaking at the KISHADE Forum during the 12th Tanzania Health Summit in Dar es Salaam on Friday, climate expert Dr. Alfred Kondowe from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) said that the rise in heat levels is putting farmers’ health and productivity at risk.
“Tree-planting is not just about the environment — it’s about saving lives,” Dr. Kondowe said. “Trees provide shade, cool the air, and protect farmers who spend long hours working under the sun.”
Dr. Kondowe noted that Tanzania has experienced higher average temperatures over the past decade, especially in agricultural regions such as Dodoma, Singida, and Shinyanga. These rising temperatures have led to frequent heat stress among farmers, lower crop yields, and loss of soil moisture.
The forum also featured Dr. Faraja Chiwanga, an internal medicine specialist and project leader at the LEAD Foundation, who warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases cases of dehydration, heatstroke, and chronic illnesses among rural populations.
“We are seeing more patients suffering from heat-related complications,” she said. “Simple community actions like tree-planting and building shaded rest areas can make a big difference.”
Dr. Otilia Gowelle, the Director of Preventive Services from the Ministry of Health, added that protecting communities from heat should be considered a national health priority.
“We must integrate climate adaptation into our health and agriculture strategies,” Dr. Gowelle said. “Tree-planting can help farmers, children, and the elderly cope better with changing weather conditions.”
The study recommends combining tree-planting with sustainable land use practices, such as agroforestry, where farmers grow crops and trees together.
This approach not only cools the air but also improves soil fertility and increases food production.
Environmental experts also suggest that the government should work with local councils and community groups to promote large-scale tree planting in rural and urban areas.
The Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with environmental organizations like LEAD Foundation, is developing new programs to provide free tree seedlings to farmers.
The initiative aims to plant at least 20 million trees in the next three years as part of Tanzania’s commitment to the National Climate Adaptation Plan and the African Green Growth Strategy.
“We want every farmer to see tree-planting as part of their farming culture,” said Dr. Gowelle. “It’s an affordable, natural way to protect our people and our planet.”
Experts at the forum agreed that while technology and innovation are important in climate adaptation, simple nature-based solutions like tree planting remain some of the most effective and sustainable.
Dr. Kondowe concluded by urging citizens to take personal responsibility:
“Every tree counts. If every Tanzanian plants even one tree a year, we can reduce heat risks for millions and build a safer, greener future for the next generation.”
