Women and community forestry in Sudan

Eighty percent of Sudan's population relies on trees to meet energy needs. High demands for firewood has led to the disappearance of about one-third of Sudan's forests. Reforestation has become a high priority with one goal hoping to convert wood consumers into tree producers. Special programs have been implemented to inform villagers about the need for trees and their capability to grow trees. Special women's committees are formed, and with the help of female extensionists, women begin small nurseries in the village or even in their own homes. Tree planting allows to plan for the future in order to meet the growing demand and to slow the effects of desert encroachment.