Long before the advent of farming, God blessed the people in the tropical regions of the world with the amazing Moringa tree. The leaves, flowers, seeds and roots of this tree supply most of the vitamins, minerals, amino acids and protein that our bodies need to survive. The tree is draught tolerant and can grow in the poorest of soils. It can be found growing in the wild throughout the tropical regions of the world. It is believed that people relied heavily on this tree for nutrition and other uses long before farming became a way of life. However as other sources of nutrition became available, especially through farming and raising livestock, the valuable properties of the Moringa tree were not passed down to other generations and was eventually forgotten in most parts of the world.
Now, where parts of the world suffer greatly from erratic climate, natural disasters, human conflict, and famine, the amazing properties of the Moringa tree are once again vital to survival and are slowly being recognized throughout the world.
Village Partners International introduced Moringa projects in Mombin Crochu, Haiti and Papoli Uganda less than two years ago. Our representatives did such a great job with education and introduction of Moringa trees to these communities that the enthusiasm for the future prospects of the Moringa tree spread throughout the villagers in both communities. Moringa project teams were established, nurseries were built, thousands of trees planted and villagers educated.
In Papoli, the small Moringa trees are being planted everywhere – along the paths and roads, around the clinic, in corn fields and in public places. Moringa powder is already being processed from these small trees and fed to the children of the pediatric clinic with their porridge.
Due to the larger geographic area in Mombin Crochu, Moringa trees are not as evident. Over 3,000 trees have been given to people within the village and outlying areas. However, with a population of over 35,000 in the greater Mombin area many more trees must be planted and distributed.
The Moringa Projects are great examples of helping villages help themselves. A little effort on our part resulted in communities banding together for a common worthy cause resulting in a positive impact over the long term.
