Location / SC

Bunyaruguru subcounty, Rubirizi District.

Entry year

2003

Trees Planted

2000

Wilson Turyahikayo, from Bunyaruguru subcounty in Rubirizi District, has been a key figure in the Trees for Global Benefits (TGB) Project since it began in 2003. His passion for tree growing started even before the idea of carbon payments, thanks to inspiration from John Tagawa, a staff member of the District Forestry Services. Wilson eagerly joined the TGB project when ECOTRUST got involved, expanding his tree-growing efforts.

Wilson’s tree-planting journey started with 100 trees on one plot and later grew to 800 more on another. Through careful management and a mix of carbon payments and tree harvests, he’s earned over UGX 60 million. His trees have also provided him with firewood and materials for charcoal production.

Locally and internationally, Wilson’s contributions have been recognized. He’s participated in monitoring activities and exchange visits with other farmers, and he even represented the TGB project as its first international speaker in Mexico, sharing how tree growing integrates with other livelihood activities.

Wilson has always advocated for diversifying income sources. He encouraged other farmers to get involved in beekeeping and livestock farming alongside tree growing. His efforts led to the creation of the Collaborative Forest Management Group (NNTG) for Kalinzu Forest Reserve, in partnership with the National Forestry Authority (NFA).

Looking back, Wilson is thankful to ECOTRUST for introducing him to the TGB project. As the project celebrates its 20th anniversary, he suggests an international celebration to highlight its global impact.