Welcome to the Neemiverse

The world of Neem stretches way beyond the Kibaale District of Uganda.  Nearly a dozen countries in Africa have active Neem development programs and the stories of the tree's miracles continue to flow in.

Neem Trees in Niger

I had breakfast this morning with Bishop Joseph from South Sudan where people are struggling mightily to build a new country almost from scratch.  There is land, he says, for people to raise crops and graze cattle but they are afraid they will be raided by soldiers from the north.  The forests have all been cut down for firewood and the soil is suffering.  "What about Neem?" I asked. He had never heard of the tree or its benefits.  However, by the end of the conversation, he was excited to consider growing neem forests to hold the soil, give people enterprise and also to produce things that could be sold at market.

"Trees are good indicators of personal production and the progress of a region," I said.  "People can see trees grow

Neem Seedlings in Uganda

from one month or one year to the next and realize they too are growing.  Some people are reminded that they are growing old and had better hurry up if they are to provide for their families."  He agreed.

I'd like to add South Sudan to the Neemiverse even as we consider growing trees beyond our malaria study to include with the Green Belt Project and other anti-dessertification efforts.  There is huge need for this tree and the methodology behind its cultivation.  The people being trained up in Kibaale District will be great ambassadors, consultants and partners to take The Neem Initiative throughout Africa.

Wouldn't you like to be part of a project with so much upside potential?  You can, you know.  Donate today or send me an email to find out how you can be involved:  neemjournalist@gmail.com.