Travelogue from Kenya and Uganda, summer 2011

Two years ago I set up the goal to go to Africa with Better Globe to visit the tree plantations I have invested in. Since then I have worked actively recommending others to contribute to Better Globe.

By planting trees, building schools, and providing micro loans, we’re creating a better world and environment for us all, when large part of Africa is suffering with severe poverty. It’s these facts that motivated me to become involved, to contribute, and invest. During the years when I have recommended other to do what I do, I have saved the compensations from the companies in a separate account.

In February last year, I decided on my birthday to go on the trip to Uganda and Kenya, and to my surprise, I had already made enough money to pay for the trip! At first it was hard for me to grasp that I could make money contributing donation packages and recommend it to others, but I now understand the difference between helping others to help themselves and charity.

Many people have asked me how it feels to make money off of poor people, but they have totally missed the point, with the money I make, I can buy more trees, which will provide employment for the poor so they can make a life for themselves. That’s what gives me the drive and energy to keep doing the same thing over and over again.

It was an incredible experience to be on the plantation and see all the trees. We also planted our own Mukai tree, which was fun and exciting, those working on the plantation made sure we did it right. It wasn’t that easy After planting my tree I have a better understanding what kind of effort it takes to plant thousands of trees!

The Mukai trees were only about a decimeter (4 inches) high and after a few years they will be several meters (yards) – so cool! They first grow vertically and then horizontally. We saw an 8 year old Mukai tree and it was standing very tall and proud. I have previously understood the theory behind the impact plantations and all the trees have, but the reality of it is something else!

I am now home after our two weeks trip and couldn’t have imagined the poverty in Africa. It’s completely different seeing it on TV, compared to seeing it with your own eyes. In Uganda I had a woman approach me, looking me in the eyes and asking: “Do you have some water?” My eyes filled with tears. Imagine being grateful everyday just for water.

I asked how long they have to walk to get water – 3 hours each way, every second day, in order to cook and survive… I told myself: “People here aren’t living, they are surviving.” It struck me during the trip how happy people were that we were there. They were grateful and proud of themselves and their country.

A man in Nairobi welcomed me and asked how I perceived the country. I answered that in spite of severe poverty and drought; I saw happiness and gratitude in many of those I met. He responded: we are happy and grateful, but we have no jobs or opportunity to create a safe and secure life without anyone leading the way.

We’re not stupid – we just don’t know what to do. He gave me a hug and wanted me to tell everyone in my country that they are welcome in Kenya. I’ll end my chronicle of my experience with the hope that more with join our trip next year so you can have the experience I had

By: Cathrin Nilsson
Customer and Better Globe Ambassador