About Us

About Us

Evergreen: Protecting Paradise, Empowering People

At EVERGREEN, we are a passionate, forward-thinking NGO dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Zanzibar for generations to come. Rooted in sustainability, equity, and community empowerment, we lead bold action against climate change and environmental degradation across the islands.

Our mission is clear: to protect, restore, and sustainably manage Zanzibar’s unique ecosystems—from vibrant mangrove forests and coral reefs to endangered wildlife and coastal communities. As rising seas, habitat loss, and extreme weather increasingly threaten our way of life, our work has never been more vital.

We believe lasting change starts with strong partnerships. That’s why we work hand-in-hand with local communities, government agencies, global environmental networks, and private partners to deliver science-driven, high-impact solutions. Through education, advocacy, clean energy programs, youth-led initiatives, and coastal protection projects, we are building a more resilient, climate-smart Zanzibar.

At EVERGREEN, environmental stewardship isn’t just a duty—it’s a powerful opportunity. An opportunity to create green jobs, boost eco-tourism, and unlock sustainable growth across our islands. We are proving every day that caring for the planet can also fuel prosperity.

Join us in creating a cleaner, greener, and climate-resilient Zanzibar. Together, we can turn the tide.

What We Stand For

Explore what drives our actions and beliefs.

What We Do

Who We Are

At EVERGREEN, we are a passionate, grassroots-driven non-governmental organization committed to preserving the environment, combating climate change, and building a sustainable future for our islands and communities. Founded on the belief that local action sparks global change, our mission is to empower Zanzibaris—especially youth and coastal communities—to become champions of their natural heritage.

As one of Zanzibar's leading environmental organizations, we operate at the intersection of climate resilience, marine conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental education. Whether it's restoring mangroves and coral reefs, promoting eco-friendly community enterprises, or advocating for bold climate policies, our initiatives are driven by science, equity, and traditional wisdom.

We know that addressing climate change isn't just about policies—it's about people. That's why we focus on community-led, inclusive programs that create green jobs, protect biodiversity, and strengthen our island's resilience against rising seas, storms, and environmental degradation.

With strong local and international partnerships, we are turning environmental challenges into opportunities, nurturing a Zanzibar that thrives—economically, socially, and ecologically.

Our Pillars of Action:

Climate Action & Policy

We are advocating for bold climate policies at local, national, and global levels. Through research-backed campaigns, we push for a swift transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices, empowering communities and governments to take meaningful climate action.

Ecosystem Protection

From reforesting damaged lands to safeguarding marine ecosystems, we are dedicated to protecting our planet’s most vulnerable environments—while empowering local communities to become stewards of their landscapes and oceans.

Environmental Education

We believe in equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools to lead climate solutions. Through school programs, workshops, and youth-led initiatives, we inspire young leaders to take action on the climate crisis.

Sustainable Innovation

Partnering with scientists, innovators, and governments, we scale nature-based solutions and green technologies that provide long-term benefits for both people and the planet, transforming challenges into sustainable opportunities.

Join Us.

Together, we can protect Zanzibar’s future—one reef, one forest, one community at a time. Let’s make a lasting difference, for the generations to come.

What We Believe

What We Do

At EVERGREEN, we are a dedicated, Zanzibar-based non-governmental organization on a mission to safeguard our environment, build climate resilience, and empower local communities to become true stewards of nature. Our work focuses on creating innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions to combat the pressing challenges of environmental degradation and climate change across Zanzibar and the broader coastal region.

Environmental Conservation

We work relentlessly to protect Zanzibar’s invaluable ecosystems—from the vibrant coral reefs and lush mangrove forests to the fragile terrestrial habitats. Through science-driven conservation initiatives, coastal cleanups, and biodiversity monitoring, we’re preserving these natural treasures for future generations.

Climate Action

Zanzibar’s coastlines, fisheries, and water systems are already feeling the impacts of climate change. Our programs promote renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable tourism to reduce emissions and strengthen local resilience. We also advocate for progressive environmental policies, shaping national and regional decisions that drive climate action.

Community Empowerment

At the heart of our work are the local communities. By providing environmental education, youth programs, and training in green entrepreneurship, we create jobs and open new economic opportunities grounded in sustainability. We especially focus on empowering women and youth, nurturing them as leaders and change-makers in their communities.

Circular Economy & Innovation

We believe in turning environmental challenges into opportunities. From eco-bricking to waste-to-energy solutions, we champion circular economy models that generate income while reducing waste. By partnering with local innovators, we support the development of scalable, green business solutions that promote sustainability and economic growth.

Partnerships & Research

Collaboration is key to our success. We work alongside universities, international NGOs, government agencies, and private-sector partners to maximize our impact. Our projects are rooted in data, research, and local expertise, ensuring that our actions are both evidence-based and effective.

Together, we are shaping a greener, fairer Zanzibar—one community, one reef, one tree at a time.

Zanzibar is sinking

Help Zanzibar Breathe Again

Our Responsibility

Discover Our Purpose, Vision, and Core Beliefs

Mission

Our Mission

At EVERGREEN, we are dedicated to safeguarding the rich natural heritage of Zanzibar while confronting the urgent challenge of climate change. Through innovative, inclusive, and sustainable environmental solutions, we empower local communities and champion the restoration of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Our work promotes renewable energy, supports eco-friendly livelihoods, and drives economic opportunity rooted in environmental stewardship. As a forward-thinking NGO, we strive to position Zanzibar as a beacon of climate resilience and green development for East Africa and the world.

Vision

Our Vision

At EVERGREEN, we envision a thriving, sustainable Zanzibar, where the environment and communities coexist in perfect harmony. We are dedicated to leading the fight against climate change, safeguarding our natural resources, and nurturing a culture of environmental stewardship. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and education, we aim to empower local communities, ignite a passion for sustainability, and contribute to the global movement for a greener, healthier planet. Together, we will protect Zanzibar's unique ecosystems, mitigate climate change's impact, and build a prosperous, sustainable future for generations to come.

OUR TEAM

Champions of Sustainability in Zanzibar

Our team is a passionate collective of environmental scientists, community organizers, educators, and policy advocates united by a shared commitment: to protect Zanzibar’s natural heritage, build climate resilience, and empower communities through sustainable solutions.

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION

Fatma Ali – Executive Director

A Zanzibar native and marine ecologist with 15+ years of experience in coastal conservation. Fatma leads the organization with vision and local insight, ensuring that every project aligns with both global climate goals and community needs.

Dr. James Mwakalinga – Climate Policy Lead

An environmental economist and policy advisor formerly with UNEP, James shapes our advocacy and works closely with local government to integrate climate-smart policy into Zanzibar’s development agenda.

Hajra Kombo – Community Engagement Manager

With a background in sociology and public health, Hajra builds deep-rooted partnerships with villages and schools, leading grassroots climate education and sustainable livelihood projects.

Omar Said – Renewable Energy Specialist

A solar engineer and green tech advocate, Omar drives our energy transition programs—installing solar infrastructure in rural clinics, schools, and fishing cooperatives.

Lucy Gardner – International Partnerships Coordinator

Based between Zanzibar and Europe, Lucy connects our local work with global funding, research, and innovation networks, opening doors to cross-border collaboration and climate finance.

Bakari Juma – Marine Conservation Officer

A dive-certified conservationist and coral reef monitor, Bakari leads our marine restoration and mangrove planting initiatives, working closely with local fishers and youth groups.

Why We're Different

  • Locally led, globally connected
  • Data-driven and community-powered
  • Focused on action, not just awareness

We believe Zanzibar can be a model for island resilience in the face of climate change—and our team is building that future, today.