LUVE NURSERY RESTORATION STRENGTHENS ESWATINI’S GREEN FUTURE

By Ntokozo Zwane

Luve, Eswatini – A major investment in the rehabilitation of the Luve Forestry Nursery is set to strengthen ecosystem restoration efforts while reinforcing Eswatini’s reputation as a destination committed to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

Healthy forests and thriving natural landscapes remain among the country’s greatest tourism assets, attracting visitors seeking authentic nature-based experiences. Recognising this, the Mbuluzi Ecosystems Restoration Project (MERP) has rehabilitated the Luve Forestry Nursery to enhance the production of indigenous tree seedlings that will help restore degraded landscapes across the Mbuluzi River Basin.

The project is executed by the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC), implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs.

The rehabilitation includes the construction of modern office space complete with a kitchen and ablution facilities, as well as the installation of shade netting and a greenhouse tunnel. These improvements will provide Forestry Department staff with the infrastructure needed to efficiently produce and manage high-quality indigenous seedlings that are essential for large-scale restoration programmes.

Beyond improving operational efficiency, the upgraded nursery represents a significant investment in Eswatini’s natural heritage. Indigenous trees produced at the facility will support ecosystem restoration projects, community greening initiatives and sustainable land management interventions aimed at reversing land degradation and protecting biodiversity.

The restoration of healthy forests is closely linked to the growth of sustainable tourism. Visitors are increasingly seeking destinations that prioritise conservation, biodiversity and climate resilience. By restoring ecosystems, Eswatini is not only safeguarding vital habitats for wildlife and indigenous plant species but also preserving the scenic landscapes that form the foundation of eco-tourism, hiking, birdwatching and other outdoor experiences.

The nursery will also strengthen the Forestry Department’s ability to support local communities through the provision of quality planting material, empowering residents to participate in environmental restoration while creating greener and more resilient landscapes.

As climate change continues to place pressure on natural ecosystems, investments such as the Luve Forestry Nursery demonstrate how environmental stewardship can deliver lasting economic and tourism benefits. Healthy forests protect water resources, improve biodiversity and create attractive natural environments that enhance visitor experiences while supporting local livelihoods.

With restoration efforts gaining momentum across the Mbuluzi River Basin, the rehabilitation of the Luve Forestry Nursery lays a strong foundation for a greener future—one where conservation, community development and sustainable tourism work hand in hand to preserve Eswatini’s rich natural heritage for generations to come.

Pics 📸 Courtesy Mbuluzi Ecosystems Restoration Project