News published 03 April 2025

In just its second year, Indigenous Tree Day (ITD) has become one of Africa’s most ambitious native tree restoration initiatives. Led by the African Tree Seeds Group (ATSG)—a network of 520+ conservationists—ITD unites self-funded partners to restore biodiversity through the planting and conservation of indigenous trees.

Expanding Global Impact: In 2024, the first ITD saw 341 native tree species planted across 12 African countries. In 2025, participation has surged to 20 African nations, the USA, and 90+ planting sites. Confirmed countries include Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, DR Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, The Gambia, Namibia, Egypt, Senegal, Ethiopia, Botswana, Niger, Mozambique, Burundi, Malawi, South Sudan, and Cameroon. ITD25 is set to triple the number of planting sites, solidifying its status as a major conservation event.

A Collective, Self-Funded Effort: ITD unites diverse stakeholders, including:
-Botanical gardens & arboreta in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe.
-Municipal governments in Dakar (Senegal), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Chipata (Zambia).
-University-led projects, such as Bomet University (Kenya) and Dilla University (Ethiopia).
-Conservation organizations, including the South African National Biodiversity Institute,
Kilimanjaro Project (Tanzania), Kyaninga Forest Foundation (Uganda), Lukango Tree Conservancy (Uganda), Silver Oak Mazingira Hub (Kenya), and Flora Africana (Zimbabwe).
-Faith-based initiatives, including the Aga Khan Mosque (Uganda) and Franciscan Green Campaign (Uganda).
-Community-led projects, such as HUMURA Organic Farming (Rwanda), Greening Kuwadzana (Zimbabwe), and Msitu Sheriff (Kenya).

ITD25 showcases the power of collective action in tackling biodiversity loss across schools, farms, reserves, and urban spaces.

Beyond Planting: A Commitment to Conservation: ITD is about more than planting trees—it’s about ensuring their long-term survival. ATSG and partners focus on seed banking, ecological monitoring, and species restoration. Special attention is given to rare and threatened species, with Lukango Tree Conservancy leveraging its extensive seed-sourcing network for genetically diverse plantings.

Join the Movement: ITD’s rapid growth is an opportunity to build a global movement for native tree conservation. The loss of indigenous trees threatens biodiversity, climate resilience, and livelihoods worldwide. By working together, we can scale up restoration efforts and share expertise in protecting native forests.

ATSG invites botanical gardens, research institutions, conservation groups, and corporate partners to join. Whether through seed banking, reforestation, or advocacy, ITD’s success depends on sustained collaboration.

To participate or support Indigenous Tree Day, visit www.IndigenousTreeDay.org or contact info@LuTreeCo.com. Together, we can make ITD a global force for ecological restoration.