Why I started Greenmanjaro

By Hans Korteweg, founder of Greenmanjaro

It begins with a simple image: "along the dusty paths of Kilimanjaro, a child walks to school at sunrise, pausing gently to pick up a forgotten piece of plastic, as if caring for the mountain itself."

The child seems involved, curious, openhearted, and eager to learn.

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When we place our book in that child's hands, we help the younger generation to create a school veggie garden and nurture seedlings that will grow into forests and shaded school grounds. We don't just contribute to their education; we plant confidence, inspiration, and hope. That child learns practical solutions to climate challenges. Step by step, learning becomes action, and action becomes empowerment.

‍Today, thousands of children in Kili Green clubs across Kilimanjaro schools share this opportunity to grow. They learn respect for nature, cooperation with one another, and pride in protecting their own environment. Every child deserves access to education and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Ten years ago, Greenmanjaro was founded on the belief that young people must help shape the future they will inherit.

From the beginning, I was inspired by their energy and the possibility of creating real, lasting change through knowledge and practical engagement. Together, as a dedicated team in both the Netherlands and Tanzania, we work with humility, community spirit, and deep respect for people and nature, values that continue to guide and motivate us every day.

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