Community-based environmental restoration efforts received a major boost this week as Global Hand Cameroon announced the successful follow-up and operational strengthening of a satellite tree nursery in Kuke Kumbu village. The nursery was established by Mount Cameroon National Park with funds from the Programme for the Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in the South West Region (PSMNR-SWR). With a production capacity of seven thousand seedlings, the nursery is expected to play a vital role in restoring degraded landscapes, rebuilding wildlife habitat, combating forest loss, and improving local livelihoods through the sale of seedlings.
Located in an area increasingly affected by deforestation, unsustainable farming practices and climate-related environmental degradation, the nursery is seen as a practical solution to promote ecological recovery while generating economic opportunities for residents. The seedlings will be distributed to farmers, conservation groups, schools, and local communities engaged in tree planting and land rehabilitation activities.
The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to reversing forest loss in the region by encouraging large-scale tree planting and promoting environmentally friendly land-use practices. Environmental experts note that restoring tree cover can help reduce soil erosion, improve water retention, enhance soil fertility, and provide habitats for wildlife species threatened by habitat destruction.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the nursery is also becoming an economic asset for the community, as local residents will generate income through the sale of seedlings to reforestation projects, farmers, and development organizations. Youths and women’s groups are among the key beneficiaries participating in the initiative.
During the follow-up visit, representatives of Global Hand Cameroon emphasized the importance of community ownership to ensure the long-term success of the project. Community leaders welcomed the project, expressing optimism that the nursery will encourage environmental stewardship while reducing poverty and unemployment.
The follow-up mission also reviewed seedling survival, infrastructure, water access, and participation, recommending stronger technical support and improved irrigation.
As Cameroon faces rising climate and deforestation challenges, the Kuke Kumbu nursery shows how local action can advance national restoration goals. Global Hand Cameroon hopes to introduce and expand similar projects in the area, reaffirming its commitment protecting ecosystems while improving the livelihoods of rural populations.


