Masingini Forest National Park, Zanzibar — February 2026 — The TUI Forest Zanzibar Phase Two initiative has officially launched, marking a significant expansion of forest restoration and sustainable tourism efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity around Masingini Forest National Park.
Led by the TUI Care Foundation in partnership with the Kawa Foundation, the project will plant more than 67,000 native trees, strengthen biodiversity protection, and deepen community engagement in one of Zanzibar’s most ecologically sensitive regions.
Why Masingini Forest Matters
Located just eight kilometres from Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Masingini Forest National Park is a vital groundwater source for Zanzibar City and a habitat for diverse plant and animal species — including the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus.
Rapid population growth and urban expansion have increased deforestation and land degradation around the park, putting mounting pressure on the fragile ecosystem. While tourism fuels economic growth in Zanzibar, it also underscores the need for sustainable land management and conservation strategies.
Building on Phase One Success
The first phase of TUI Forest Zanzibar focused on establishing a protective buffer zone between the forest and surrounding residential areas. Achievements included:
- Planting 63,400 trees on degraded land
- Establishing and maintaining a tree nursery
- Creating an outdoor environmental classroom
- Engaging more than 500 community members and students in restoration efforts
These measures strengthened biodiversity protection while raising awareness among local communities about forests’ role in climate regulation, water security and livelihoods.
What’s New in Phase Two
The newly launched TUI Forest Zanzibar Phase Two significantly scales up impact through restoration, education and community-led protection.
🌳 Large-Scale Native Tree Planting
- Over 67,000 native trees to be planted
- Focus on biodiversity-supporting species, including endangered and medicinal plants
- Introduction of a movable irrigation system to improve seedling survival during dry seasons
- Collaboration with the Zanzibar Forestry Department for planting inside Masingini Forest
📚 Conservation Education
A Forest Awareness Programme will directly engage more than 700 secondary school students, who will plant 7,200 trees at schools, in home gardens and within the forest. The initiative fosters long-term environmental stewardship among youth.
🛡️ Community-Based Forest Protection
A newly formed Forest Protection Unit will include trained members from 13 surrounding communities. The unit will patrol 55,500 square metres of forest boundary to prevent poaching and illegal activities, reinforcing conservation enforcement at the grassroots level.
🧵 Sustainable Livelihood Development
The project supports 13 communities in developing eco-friendly crafts and souvenirs made from natural materials. Training in product development and marketing aims to diversify income streams while reducing dependence on forest resources.
Sustainable Tourism as a Conservation Tool
The second phase also advances eco- and community-based tourism initiatives. Planned developments include:
- Nature walking trails
- Cycling routes
- Guided community tours highlighting local culture and biodiversity
By creating nature-based tourism experiences, the project generates additional income opportunities while easing environmental pressure on Masingini Forest.
Part of ‘Forest February’
The expansion forms part of the TUI Care Foundation’s annual ‘Forest February’ campaign — a global month of reforestation-focused activities. The initiative promotes community-managed forest restoration and sustainable agroforestry tourism as long-term solutions to protect ecosystems and livelihoods.
The Bigger Picture
The TUI Forest Zanzibar Phase Two project reflects a growing recognition that biodiversity protection, climate resilience and tourism development must operate in alignment. By combining reforestation, education, community empowerment and responsible tourism, the initiative aims to safeguard Masingini Forest for future generations while strengthening Zanzibar’s environmental and economic sustainability.
Key Facts at a Glance
- 🌳 67,000+ native trees to be planted
- 👩🎓 700+ students engaged in conservation education
- 🛡️ Forest Protection Unit formed across 13 communities
- 🌍 Located 8 km from UNESCO-listed Stone Town
- 📅 Launched during ‘Forest February’
