Vision
A future in which young people in the Eastern Arc Mountains lead the protection of forest landscapes while building dignified livelihoods from it.
About Us
Forest knowledge, community dignity, and a practical model for conservation.
TEG was founded from lived experience: the forest as medicine, livelihood, education, and shared responsibility.
Origin Story
Founded by Pius Matunge.
TEG was founded in 2007 and formally registered in 2014 by Pius Matunge. My father, Matunge Kilala, served as both a chief and a herbalist. Throughout my life, the forest has been essential to our well-being. Its roots and leaves provided medicinal benefits, supported our family's livelihood, funded my education, and provided income in my community. However, ongoing deforestation now threatens forest conservation and community livelihoods.
This experience inspired me to establish Tengeneza Generation. We operate in the Eastern Arc Mountains, one of 36 global biodiversity hotspots. Local communities are expected to protect forests that supply water to millions, yet they receive little benefit in return. TEG's model focuses on making conservation economically viable for these communities.
Pius Matunge, Executive Director and Curator
Who We Are
A Tanzanian nonprofit linking conservation and livelihoods.
TENGENEZA GENERATION (TEG) is a nonprofit in Tanzania dedicated to forest conservation through the empowerment of young people. We support communities near the Nature Forest Reserves in Morogoro, promoting both conservation and improved livelihoods.
Since 2014, we have led ecosystem restoration, community forest co-management, financial inclusion, climate-smart livelihoods, and green economy initiatives. Our approach combines community engagement, creativity, sustainable livelihoods, land use, and environmental initiatives.
25%Tanzania's freshwater supplied by the Eastern Arc.
70%Dar es Salaam's water supply depends on the Eastern Arc.
70%Vegetation lost across the Arc over the past decade.
Mission
TEG strengthens youth-led stewardship of the Uluguru Mountain communities by linking conservation, enterprise, and community development so that the generation living adjacent to these forests becomes the generation that secures their future and the forest's future.
Focus
We address the tension between vulnerable communities and the forests they are asked to protect.
Our Values
The culture behind the work.
Community First
We prioritize our community, staff, and partners by fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Creative and Innovative
We grow by learning. With open minds and a passion for fresh ideas, we refine our strategies to tackle new challenges.
Inclusion and Diversity
We make sure every voice is heard, especially those from marginalised groups like young mothers, so solutions reflect local cultures and needs.
Partners
Supported through collaboration.
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