One Tree at A Time

10/04/2025

Taking a look back at the promising beginnings of a project designed to shape a more sustainable future for Lusaka! In 2023, the IKOE Foundation, in close collaboration with the Lusaka City Council (LCC) and our valued partners from the Municipality of Lidköping, Sweden, proudly initiated the "Climate Smart and Resilient Cities" project. Recognizing the fundamental need for concerted environmental improvements to build a truly resilient urban environment, this partnership kicked off with a meaningful tree planting event at the heart of academia – the University of Zambia.

The planting of 50 significant umbrella trees at UNZA, with the esteemed presence of the Mayor of Lusaka, the University's Vice-Chancellor, and other key stakeholders, served as a powerful symbol of our collective commitment to action. This project embodies the spirit of international cooperation and directly contributes to the overarching goals of the Green Up Zambia campaign – our ambitious drive to plant 20 million trees by 2030 and create a city that is both environmentally sound and resilient to the impacts of climate change. This early milestone underscores the importance of working together across borders and sectors to achieve lasting environmental progress.

09/04/2025

We at the IKOE Foundation are particularly encouraged by Mayor Chilando Chitangala's emphasis on the importance of tree planting in restoring nature and combating climate change – a vision fully aligned with our own.
The Lusaka City Council's achievement of planting over 5,000 trees in the last three years through the "Plant a Tree with the Mayor" initiative is truly commendable and provides a strong foundation for our collective goals.

We were honored to contribute to this vital effort, as highlighted by the Mayor's mention of our donation of 50 fruit trees to Bauleni Special Needs Project School. This aligns perfectly with our Green Up Zambia campaign's focus on engaging communities and providing tangible benefits, such as the fruit trees which offer both environmental and potential nutritional value, especially for vulnerable learners.

The "Plant a Tree with the Mayor" initiative serves as a powerful example of the kind of partnerships we need to achieve our ambitious goal of 20 million trees by 2030. By working hand-in-hand with the Lusaka City Council, schools, and other dedicated stakeholders, we can significantly scale up tree planting efforts across the city and beyond.

This activity underscores the growing awareness and commitment to environmental preservation within Lusaka. The IKOE Foundation remains dedicated to supporting the LCC and other partners in expanding these vital initiatives, empowering communities, and nurturing a greener, more resilient Zambia for generations to come. Every tree planted is a step closer to our 20 million tree vision!

03/03/2025

Flashback to February 13th: A Greener Future Takes Root! 🌳

Rewind to February 13th, when the Independent Broadcasting Authority and passionate students from Broadway Secondary School in Kabwe joined forces with the IKOE Foundation for an inspiring tree-planting event! 🌱 Together, we planted 102 fruit trees, adding vibrant life and a breath of fresh air to the school.

This initiative was part of our broader Green Up Zambia campaign and Green Schools program, empowering young people to become environmental stewards and contribute to a healthier planet. 🌍 We engaged in lively discussions about climate change, the importance of biodiversity, and how we can all make a difference, echoing the spirit of World Radio Day's theme, "Radio and Climate."

We were honored to have esteemed guests grace the occasion, including the Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Media, the Kabwe Province Permanent Secretary, the Kabwe Mayor, the IBA Acting Director General, and heads of organizations like MISA Zambia and UNESCO. Their presence underscored the importance of this initiative and its role in building a sustainable future for Zambia.

Special thanks to The independent Broadcasting Authority, Kabwe Municipal Council, Kabwe District Forestry Department, MISA Zambia, and all the media partners who helped make this event a success! Your support amplifies our message and strengthens our collective efforts towards a greener Zambia.Let's continue to amplify these messages and nurture a greener future for Zambia! 💚

03/03/2025

11/02/2025

Zambian music legend Angela Nyirenda recently joined the movement, by collecting trees under our Green Homes Initiative! Inspired by her commitment to a greener Zambia?
You can be part of the change too! We're giving homeowners and residents up to 5 FREE trees to plant at their homes. Visit and choose from a variety of indigenous fruit and shade trees. Let's create a network of green spaces across Zambia, one home at a time!

11/02/2025

Calling all nature lovers, community champions, and anyone who believes in a sustainable future!

The Ikoe Foundation, through our "One Tree At A Time" program under the campaign, is excited to announce a series of tree-planting events throughout February! We're taking action to combat climate change, restore our ecosystems, and create a greener Zambia for generations to come.

Through the "Green Up Zambia Campaign" , we aim to:
1. Increase tree cover in Zambia: We believe that planting trees is a tangible way to address deforestation and its impacts.
2. Raise awareness about environmental issues: We use tree planting events as opportunities to educate communities about the importance of environmental conservation.
3. Empower individuals to take action: We believe that everyone can play a role in creating a greener future.
4. Build partnerships: We collaborate with schools, local councils, traditional ceremonies, and other organizations to maximize our impact.

Why You Should Join Us

1. Make a difference: Be part of a movement that is making a positive impact on Zambia's environment.
2. Connect with your community: Meet like-minded people who are passionate about creating a sustainable future.
3. Learn new skills: Gain experience in tree planting and environmental stewardship.
4. Enjoy the outdoors: Spend time in nature and contribute to its preservation.

Ready to get your hands dirty and make a difference?
RSVP to [email protected] or call us at 0973578350 or 0977237664 to register for an event near you!

Let's work together to create a greener Zambia, one tree at a time!

22/01/2025

A Day of Action and Inspiration at Mikango Secondary School! 🌳

The air buzzed with excitement as over 300 students at Mikango Secondary School joined forces with the IKOE Foundation, When Females Lead, and the Lusaka City Council Foundation for a day of environmental action. Thanks to the generous support of the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund, we were able to plant 155 trees on the school grounds, contributing to a greener future for Lusaka.

But the impact extended far beyond tree planting. When Females Lead hosted a powerful careers and mental health talk, inspiring students to reach for their dreams and navigate life's challenges with resilience. And to add another layer of significance, the Regiment Commander of Mikango Barracks addressed the students, emphasizing the crucial role of youth in combating climate change and fostering environmental stewardship.

This collaborative effort was a powerful reminder of the positive change we can achieve when we work together. By empowering young people, fostering environmental awareness, and taking concrete action like tree planting, we can create a sustainable future for all.

07/01/2025

Growing a Greener Lusaka, One Tree at a Time💪🌳
We're thrilled to see the incredible collaboration on display at the recent Inner city greening event organized by the Lusaka City Council and so many fantastic partners! This initiative aimed at planting 200 native species along Great East Road, perfectly embodies the spirit of our Green Up Zambia campaign.

A huge thank you to the Lusaka City Council District Planning Unit, Parks and Gardens Unit Lions club district 413, Zambia Plant Trees, Eco Stewards, Trees for Zambia, American International School of Lusaka - AISL School,, Green Belt Energy, and the Finnish Embassy for your dedication to a greener Lusaka, one tree at a time, we can make a real difference!

These trees will provide countless benefits for years to come, including:
Cleaner Air: Trees act as natural filters, absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen.
Reduced Temperatures: Lush greenery helps cool the urban environment, providing much-needed relief from Lusaka's heat.
Enhanced Biodiversity: A wider variety of plant life attracts pollinators and creates a healthier ecosystem.
Improved Aesthetics: Trees beautify our city, creating a more vibrant and enjoyable environment.

A special shout-out to Mr. Chilomo for his generous donation of 150 trees and his pledge for an additional 1,000! This kind of community spirit is what makes the Green Up Zambia campaign so impactful.

This collaborative effort is a true inspiration, and we at The IKOE Foundation look forward to partnering with all of you on even more impactful projects in the new year! Let's keep planting trees and growing a healthier, happier Lusaka together. Every tree planted brings us closer to a greener, healthier Lusaka for all. Together, let's keep planting trees, one at a time, and build a greener future for Lusaka!

06/06/2024

Double the Impact for World Environment Day!

A big shout-out to our incredible partners, the Independent Broadcasting Authority - IBA Zambia, for their fantastic contribution to the Green Up Zambia campaign!

Our concerted tree-planting event at Kalingalinga Primary School perfectly reflects the spirit of World Environment Day 2024: "Our Land. Our Future. We are ."

Not only did we plant 100 fruit trees, IBA Director General Mr. Guntila Muleya also highlighted the crucial role of the media! Media platforms have a powerful responsibility to spread awareness about climate change and encourage informed discussions.

This aligns perfectly with our vision for the Green Up Zambia Campaign. By educating and empowering young people, particularly through initiatives like Ms. Gladys Rumsey, Ikoe Foundation Director, mentioned, we can foster a generation of environmental stewards.

Thank you to the IBA, Ministry of Information and Media, Kalingalinga Primary School, and all the dignitaries involved!

Together, let's leverage action and awareness to combat climate change and create a greener future for Zambia.

Here's what you can do:

Share this post! Help spread the word about the importance of environmental action and the incredible work of the IBA.

Learn more: Visit our website www.ikoe.org

or social media pages to discover how you can get involved with the Green Up Zambia campaign.

Start small, make a difference! Plant a tree, participate in a local cleanup, or simply share information about climate change with your friends and family.
Together, we can make a real difference!

05/06/2024

Green Up Zambia Makes a Splash at Yotam Muleya School!

We're thrilled to share highlights from our recent tree-planting ceremony at Yotam Muleya School in Lusaka, held in collaboration with the Lusaka City Council (LCC) and Airtel Zambia!

This initiative, part of the Green Up Zambia campaign's perfectly embodies the spirit of World Environment Day 2024: "Our Land. Our Future. We are ."

As highlighted by Her Worship the Mayor, Ms. Chilando Chitangala, planting trees is a powerful way to combat climate change, prevent desertification, and build resilience against drought.

Airtel Zambia, a true champion for sustainability, is leading the charge with a pledge to plant 350 trees across 30 schools in Lusaka. Their Managing Director, Mr. Hussam Baday, emphasizes the importance of such efforts in mitigating environmental challenges.

But the responsibility doesn't stop there! As young people, we have a crucial role to play.
Here's how YOU can be part of :

Plant a tree! Every tree counts in creating a greener, healthier planet.

Spread awareness! Share information about the importance of land restoration on social media.

Engage with your community! Organize or participate in tree-planting initiatives in your neighborhood.
Together, we can make a difference!

Huge thanks to Lusaka City Council and Airtel Zambia Zambia for partnering with us on this impactful initiative!