Southern Africa is home to vast natural woodlands that play a critical role in regulating the climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining rural communities. Yet, these ecosystems are under threat. In Zambia alone, each year forests equivalent in size to Yosemite National Park are cleared—much of it for charcoal production as farmers seek alternative income sources during times of drought. A new initiative, the Miombo Woodland Restoration Project, seeks to turn this challenge into an opportunity. Backed by Climate Impact Partners (CIP) and Community Climate Solutions (CCS), the project aims to restore between 800,000 and 1 million hectares of woodland—an area roughly the size of Puerto Rico. Farmers at the Center of Climate Solutions Unlike traditional carbon credit schemes, this project places farmers at the forefront. By 2030, it plans to generate 2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide removals annually while creating 50,000 ecopreneurs—local farmers who will be both environmental stewards and economic beneficiaries. Why It Matters Farmers are being paid to plant native trees, protect woodlands, and adopt sustainable agricultural practices that improve soil health. Already, 25,000 farmers have joined, with the number expected to double by year-end. Instead of widespread burning, targeted charcoal production from selected trees will be introduced to balance household energy needs with forest preservation.