From the Nursery to the Field: Tangible Results in the Village of Msimba, Tanzania

At the beginning of 2026, as part of its ESG commitment, Aquanexa launched an agroforestry project in Tanzania together with Rete Clima, aimed at supporting local communities in the sustainable cultivation of cocoa.

This initiative helps reduce pressure on forests, improve the area’s climate resilience, and promote more sustainable agricultural practices.

Let’s take a closer look at the results achieved during the first quarter of 2026.

Q1 2026 Results

During the first quarter of 2026, the project strengthened its impact through concrete support activities for local farmers in the village of Msimba (Tanzania), specifically:

• 31 local farmers (15% of whom are women) took part in training and technical support activities
• A community nursery for cocoa seedlings was established
• Nursery management activities achieved a 97% seedling survival rate

Transplanting operations into agricultural fields began with the direct support of local technicians

At the same time, farmers received hands-on training on:

• proper transplanting techniques
• pest and disease management
• sustainable and agroforestry farming practices

The Project’s 4 Areas of Intervention

The project is based on an integrated approach to environmental conservation and local development, structured around four main areas:

• Agroforestry: improving cocoa cultivation and integrating tree species
• Environmental education: activities in schools and local communities
• Efficient energy technologies: reducing pressure on forest resources
• Sustainable income development: creating economic alternatives compatible with environmental protection

This approach helps reduce communities’ dependence on forest resources while protecting local biodiversity.

The Challenges

Field activities highlighted several challenges linked to climate change and local environmental conditions:

• periods of low rainfall affecting seedling establishment
• the presence of termites damaging roots
• heat stress conditions for young crops

To address these challenges, the project introduced practical, low-impact solutions:

• soil moisture conservation techniques (mulching, water collection)
• natural pest control methods
• temporary shading structures
• soil fertility improvement through compost and agroforestry practices

These actions strengthen the resilience of farming communities against the effects of climate change.

The Role of Water 

Sustainable water management is a key element for the success of the project.

The activities introduced — such as mulching, rainwater harvesting, and soil structure improvement — help to:

• increase the soil’s water retention capacity
• reduce vulnerability during drought periods
• improve crop growth and food security

Water therefore becomes a central factor in climate resilience and sustainable development for local communities.

From water management to climate resilience, we believe sustainability is built through concrete actions and projects capable of generating real impact.