Many of us in North America do not rely on wood for cooking or shade trees for cooling. In contrast, millions in the Global South depend on trees for life-saving shade, livestock fodder, cooking fuel, and building materials. As deforestation continues worldwide, people and the environment suffer.
Mennonite Men is committed to addressing deforestation and caring for God's creation. Historically, our JoinTrees grants funded projects in the U.S. and Canada, but we now support initiatives in Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, Angola, Benin, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These projects help mitigate climate change by planting trees that absorb carbon dioxide. We are also evaluating how to support tree planting for firewood alternatives, recognizing the complexities of deforestation globally.
A recent news report on violence in DRC led me to reconnect with Ndunge Sefu, a seminary friend, for insights. Ndunge and his wife, Micheline Ilonga, who have lived in DRC and other African countries, offered valuable perspectives. They expressed gratitude that the world is beginning to notice DRC's struggles, but as Ndunge noted, "If an issue doesn't touch the interests of superpowers, the world doesn't hear about it."
The eastern DRC faces severe violence, with tens of thousands dying monthly due to armed rebel groups. Over 120 rebel factions operate there, many profiting from "mineral wars" over coltan, a metal vital for electronic devices. These conflicts result in child labor, environmental devastation, and human suffering. People flee violence, trees are burned, and forests are depleted as displaced communities seek firewood.
Wildlife also suffers. Unique species like the okapi and mountain gorilla are vanishing due to habitat destruction. "War affects nature, too," Micheline said. Even in areas without conflict, people cut trees for firewood without replanting due to a lack of awareness. "You can plant a tree. This side of the conversation is missing."
The discussion turned to solutions. Micheline asked, "How can you think about trees when you have an empty stomach?"
Ndunge suggested, "People can farm trees instead of cutting indigenous forests." Micheline added, "Many women farm in Congo. Growing fruit trees can provide them with income. The land is fertile, and trees will grow."
This conversation reinforced our commitment to tree-planting initiatives in DRC and Angola. Supporting our African brothers and sisters in these efforts is part of our call to love our neighbors and participate in Christ's mission of reconciliation.
To date, Mennonite Men has only provided half the funding needed for these projects. We need financial support to complete them. These efforts create livelihoods, inspire communities, and offer sustainable alternatives to deforestation while providing ecological benefits.
Join us in planting hope by supporting these tree-planting projects in DRC and Angola. Your contributions will help restore forests, empower communities, and protect creation for future generations.
To learn more about JoinTrees projects and how you, your company, your men's group, or your congregation can get involved, visit www.mennonitemen.org/jointrees.
