By Our Reporter,
WAKISO
At least 183 Primary schools in Uganda will benefit from schools tree planting initiative under the greening programme, one way to conserve environment and combat climate change.
This was revealed during the launch of the programme at Namalere Mixed SSS in Kagoma , Wakiso district on Tuesday. The programme is funded by Absa Bank, Rotary Uganda and My Tree Initiative with the aim to engage students in planting and nurturing trees in their school communities.
Speaking at the launch of the program, Absa Bank Uganda’s Managing Director, Mumba Kalifungwa, emphasized Absa Bank’s commitment to sustainability, stating
“As Absa, our strong focus is to promote positive change within the communities we serve through impactful initiatives like this”.
Kalifungwa called for collective efforts to combat societal challenges like climate change which he said is a public concern.
“As we focus on trees, we are excited to have this successful partnership branch out and expand our impact within the community. This is all a continuation of last year’s work with My Tree Initiative which already saw the restoration of over 3,500 acres of forestland. This translated to a 74% increase in student access to fruits and vegetables for better nutrition in a healthier environment,” said Kalifungwa.
Launched under the theme, “Sustainable Growing of 120,000 Trees in Primary Schools”, the schools greening program will see 90,000 students engaged in planting and nurturing 120,000 trees across the primary schools. This according to experts will combat climate change and promote environmental education across school communities. Approximately 3,000 trees were planted at the launch event.
Rotary Uganda’s District Governor of Rotary Uganda (D9213), Anne Nkutu, retaliated Rotary’s commitment to support environmental conservation explaining; “Rotary has seven areas of focus and protecting the environment is one of them. We recognize that a healthy planet is critical for our existence and achievement of all our other goals. Our greening efforts in Uganda began in 2017 and we welcome collaboration with Private Sector companies which enables us to increase our impact.”
Additionally, Enjer Ashiraf, My Tree Initiative Executive Director commended Absa Bank and Rotary for supporting their initiative to engage young people in environmental conservation activities.
“Absa has supported us on engaging fellow young people to plant and care for trees for 3 years now and we are grateful to welcome our newest Partner, Rotary, on board. Together, we are integrating environmental education into school curriculums and nurturing future champions of our planet, engaging students in hands on tree planting activities, improving their diet and creating a sustainable learning environment”.
