EcoVentures International

FoU participated in the EcoVentures International's Environmental Enterprise Training Program to learn more about environmental enterprises besides ecotourism and the opportunities in environmental enterprise for community members in the villages that FoU supports.  The elements of this training are incorporated into all aspects of the guiding work that FoU does, including teaching members of the villages they support and visitors about fuel briquette making, plastics recycling, and organic farming.

FoU conceptualized a school tree nursery enterprise project with two primary schools in Lushoto.  Through EcoVentures International's EEDI, the project was funded by the Artemisia Foundation.

Project Goal: To develop innovative environmental enterprises and related technologies in schools to promote an entrepreneurial culture, environmental responsibility, and entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial capabilities in youth.

FOU has gone through a sensitization process with the District Education Officer, the village executives, and school committees at Kwemongo and Mtae schools.  Kwemongo village executives were particularly receptive and offered use of village soil for potting of the seedlings.  FOU identified members of the clubs with students from Standard 7 (13-14 years old).  They will be running the tree nurseries as businesses to build their business and financial skills while promoting environmental enterprise.  FOU plans to teach them savings and credit group skills as part of this.

In order to increase the sustainability of the project, they will be using banana leaves and recycled water bottles as containers for the seedlings.  As the groups wait for the rainy season, they will begin their learning with environmental enterprise training, similar to that run by EVI during the Environmental Enterprise Training Program.

FOU has developed a comprehensive web-site to promote ecotourism within the Lushoto region.  The member tour groups, including Maweni Farms, FOU guides, and bike touring companies will be highlighted on the sight as well as the sustainable tourism model presented by FOU.