Lilongwe, Malawi … It is often evident the way human nature can lead to procrastination when the immediate task does not yield immediate returns on investment. This tendency is particularly pronounced in emerging nations where the imperative of survival often supersedes long-term goals and objectives.
In the world of the poor, impoverished villagers in rural areas exist day by day. Tomorrow appears distant, and survival demands nearly all of an individual’s energy just to survive today. The concept of undertaking a project with a 25-year value seems impractical. This focus on the present is evident in the deforestation that occurs in Malawi. Firewood for preparing today’s meals overrides consideration of trees that are required for the future. This short-sightedness has two immediate consequences. First, trees are cut for immediate use with little provision for tomorrow, and second, vast tracts of forests are sold for economic gain, disregarding the long-term necessity of sustainable resources.
While this may appear reprehensible and shortsighted, it is crucial to acknowledge that we operate in a world where long-term objectives may not always be the most pressing concerns, and we must confront the realities of the present.
Several years ago, the Malawi Project initiated measures to address this issue through its tree planting initiatives. The Shoes for Trees program was established. An immediate reward (a new pair of shoes) was offered to those who would address the long-term need (trees for the future). In this way, the Malawi Project and Action for Progress are collaborating to dispel the notion that tree planting lacks immediate value.
To receive the shoes villagers’ plant and care for trees until they attain a substantial height capable of resisting wildfires. The immediate receipt of a reward significantly enhances the appeal of planting trees.
In recent months, Walmart has made available several thousand pair of new shoes still in their original packaging at no cost. The Malawi Project has shipped these shoes to Malawi, and Action for Progress is distributing and overseeing the program. This program has demonstrated that villagers are willing to plant tree seedlings in exchange for new shoes, effectively meeting the short-term objective of providing footwear for those who could not otherwise afford it and the long-term goal of reforesting the land.
Your support is essential to continue this project. Although the shoes are donated free, the costs associated with transportation, distribution, and program oversight must be covered. Trees are fundamental to sustaining life, and your support is crucial in this life-saving effort.
Your check can be sent to the Malawi Project at 2421 Golfside Dr., Lebanon, IN 46052. Alternatively, you can program a one-time monthly contribution at https://www.malawiproject.org/donate/