It is now widely recognized that deforestation is occurring at pandemic rates throughout the developing nations. In general, the Usambara forests in the Lushoto region of Tanzania are being denuded largely for fuel wood production/use. It is also well known that many people in the Lushoto region earn their income from fuel wood and charcoal production, distribution and sales thus creating a more complex problem. The women of the Mkombozi Group recognize that forest destruction will continue unless an equally attractive employment opportunity is found in the provision of a sustainable fuel alternative.

Substantially reduce, the rate of deforestation in Tanzania, especially in the Usambara Mountain region

Establish a market for biomass briquettes as a fuel wood alternative

Establish a market for biomass briquette training in the East Africa region

The Mkombozi Women’s Group was trained in the art and craft of biomass briquette production in 2007. At that time, they learned how to manufacture the briquette press technology and produce burnable and biomass briquette. They found that biomass briquettes made of easily and freely available agricultural waste products ( leaves, grass, straw) could replace their use of firewood and charcoal as a fuel. Once they were fully involved in the technology, they requested further training so that they could spread the word and skills and train others. Legacy Foundation then returned to train them as trainers in 2009. They are now an active briquette producing and training organization. They have trained many others in the biomass briquette making process, but need further assistance in marketing their products - both the briquettes and their training services. They recently received marketing skills training from the Legacy Foundation but need further assistance in making those plans a reality.