Schools drive tree planting campaign in Northern Uganda

Gulu, Uganda: Schools across Northern Uganda have taken centre stage in the fight against climate change, as a nationwide tree-planting initiative rolls out to restore degraded landscapes and promote environmental conservation.

The campaign, spearheaded by Absa Bank Uganda in partnership with My Tree Initiative, will see over 700,000 fruit tree seedlings distributed to more than 300 schools across the country.

Northern Uganda has in recent years experienced severe environmental decline driven by deforestation, charcoal burning, and expanding settlements.

Districts such as Gulu, Kitgum, and Agago have seen significant loss of tree cover, exposing communities to erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, declining soil fertility, and food insecurity.

Leaders warn that without deliberate intervention, the region faces worsening climate vulnerability.

The initiative was officially launched at Gulu High School, with leaders emphasising the strategic role of schools in driving long-term environmental transformation.

Gulu City Deputy Mayor Christine Olok said the project marks a turning point in correcting years of environmental damage. “We have been cutting trees a lot in this region, but today we are correcting the wrong that was done,” she said.

She urged schools to ensure proper care of the seedlings, noting that the project will benefit both learners and communities through improved nutrition and environmental restoration.

At Gulu High School alone, at least 2,000 trees are expected to be planted.

Project implementers say the initiative goes beyond tree planting to embed environmental responsibility among young people.

According to Enjala Wasswa Ndumba, students are being trained to plant and manage trees as part of practical learning. “The aim is to nurture a generation that understands the importance of protecting the environment,” he said.

Teachers say the program aligns with Uganda’s competency-based curriculum, allowing students to actively participate in watering, weeding, and protecting the trees while gaining life skills.

Officials from Absa, represented by Francis Toopaco, say the initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental and social sustainability.

The program is expected to expand to other districts, with stakeholders emphasizing the importance of maintenance and community ownership to ensure long-term success.

Experts caution that while tree planting initiatives are common, their impact depends on consistent care, something this school-based model seeks to address.