Senegal Treecovery Update – May 2026
An update on the Karkaral programme in Senegal!
The rainy season typically occurs between July and October. Over the last months, there have been no rains in the programme area. Despite the dry conditions, the Karkaral efforts show promising signs of resilience and early recovery. Next to restoration activities, we have focused on site maintenance, monitoring and engagement with the farmers. The participating champion farmers have now received both basic and intermediate training, including practical guidance on Karkaral techniques and other sustainable land management practices. Whilst it is still early in the programme, we are already seeing progressive improvements in farmers’ capacity and confidence!
Inspiring community members to join the regreening movement!
In Bambey, Senegal, champion farmers have trained other farmers in Karakaral. The champions are recognised by their communities as true stewards of forests and water. Recently, they took part in a community march, together with our programme facilitator and supervisor, proudly carrying the project banner to raise awareness among their neighbours. Their dedication illustrates how the Karkaral program is growing a local regreening movement!
Photo 1: Ibrahima Thiaw (champion farmer), Fallou Diouf (facillitator), Coumba Gaye (champion farmer), Pape Diouf (supervisor), and Fassar Diop (champion farmer) participated in a community march to raise awareness on restoration!
In the Karkaral Programme, farmers select shoots and mark them with a red band. This indicates that the tree is part of the Karkaral programme and should be protected. This system also helps farmers easily identify which branches to preserve or prune.
Farmers also use supports made from Euphorbia balsamifera to support young seedlings. This practice keeps seedlings upright and helps the tree to grow faster. Meanwhile, it also protects the tree from damage by termites.
Photo 2: One of the supported Karkaral trees: ready to grow!
Photo 3: Marking the Karkaral tree with a red band.
Photo 4: Karkaral in action! Euphorbia balsamifera near the stump.