"Tony the Second" of Tigray: How Gebregzihabeher is Regrowing Hope

In the gently sloping, clay-soiled land of Tanqua Milash District, in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia, a quiet revolution in land restoration is taking place, led by a passionate 70-year-old farmer, and father of 8, named Gebregzihabeher. Despite the challenges posed by the intense temperature and unpredictable rainfall of the semi-arid Tanqua Milash District, Gebregzihabeher has emerged as a local champion of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR), a low-cost, sustainable land restoration technique where farmers actively manage the natural regrowth of trees and shrubs from existing root systems, stumps, and seeds. His land, once vulnerable to the elements, is now a thriving work of native vegetation. While Gebregzihabeher has always possessed a deep-seated love for trees, it was a training session with World Vision Ethiopia in Wukro, Tigray, that gave his indigenous wisdom a new depth and structure, transforming his 2.5-hectare farm into a model of ecological resilience.   

Miraf, Gebre's daughter in grade 7, said, "I told my classmates that my father is an environmental advocate who teaches communities by visiting different kebeles. 

Gebregzihabeher manages a total of 469 trees across 17 different species. His philosophy is rooted in the belief that naturally regenerated trees are far more resilient than planted seedlings, which often fail to thrive in the harsh climate. By practising intensive management such as strategic pruning, thinning, and fencing, he has ensured that his trees grow straight and strong.  

Inspired by Tony Rinaudo, an Australian agronomist often called “the Forest Maker,” Gebregzihabeher felt a personal responsibility to mentor his neighbours, setting a goal to become "Tony the Second".  

His goal to carry on Tony’s legacy is met with mistrust; local farmers consider his efforts to promote FMNR as a waste of valuable time. While sceptics in his village often ask who is paying him for his time, he tells them that protecting natural resources is his true pay. This passion has turned him into a tireless teacher who spends his Sundays visiting local churches to share the benefits of land restoration with the community and goes to schools to teach students.  

Gebregzihabeher said, "I see how excited and motivated the students become when I talk to them about the importance of trees. They ask a lot of questions because they genuinely want to understand how trees help protect our land and why we need to prevent land degradation. It's inspiring to see their curiosity and eagerness to learn how they can take care of their environment.  

He keeps a registration notebook to track the farmers he has taught; to date, he has reached over 3,000 people and personally mentored 10 neighbouring farmers in adopting these practices. 

"I never mind that I am tired; I just go forward," Gebregzihabeher says. "Learn today, tomorrow, always learning."  

The impact of this stewardship is most evident within Gebregzihabeher’s own household of eight. By reviving the soil, he has secured his family's future, earning an average annual income of US$872 from wood sales and fruits like mangoes, oranges, and grapes. In a context where many rural families survive on far less and rely on uncertain, day-to-day income, this stability is significant. His family no longer depends on local markets for firewood or construction materials, reducing their expenses while increasing self-sufficiency. Beyond livelihoods, the benefits reach into other areas of their lives. With a more stable income, the family is better able to keep their children in school, supporting education. Reduced financial stress and stronger household resilience contribute to a safer, more protective environment for children. Access to diverse fruits improves nutrition, while the restored land helps the family better withstand drought and climate shocks.  

"Our garden is green. We use trees for firewood and income-generating activities. My father also buys me exercise books by selling Terminalia brownie seeds,"  Miraf said. 

Ultimately, his work is about creating a conducive environment for his children and grandchildren, ensuring they grow up with food security and economic stability. Despite obstacles like a lack of specialised tools, he remains committed to his legacy, proving that local champions can revive both the soil and the hope of an entire region. 

In the dryland, one farmer has proven that restoring the land begins with restoring belief. Inspired by FMNR pioneer Tony Rinaudo and strengthened through training from World Vision Ethiopia, Gebregzihabeher is showing that natural regeneration can transform degraded soil into opportunity, income, and hope for future generations. 

Now is the time for farmers, educators, local leaders, and development partners to embrace Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration, support community champions, and invest in sustainable land restoration practices. By learning, teaching, and applying FMNR, we can regenerate our landscapes, strengthen livelihoods, and secure a greener, more resilient future for our children. 

By Bitima Milkessa, Advocacy & Communication Specialist, World Vision Ethiopia