ENTEBBE
In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and combat climate change, Youth Go Green, in partnership with TowerCo of Africa – Uganda (TOA), has launched the National Green Schools and Restoration campaign. The initiative aims to plant and grow 20 million trees by 2030, starting with 8,000 fruits and indigenous tree seedlings in 16 schools across Entebbe Municipality.
The launch event was attended by key government institutions, including the Ministry of Water and Environment, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and National Forestry Authority. Maj. Gen. David Insimbwa, Deputy Commander Airforce, represented the Commander UPDF Airforce as the chief guest. “As the Air Force, we recognize the critical role tree planting plays in mitigating our environmental footprint, and we are proud to partner with Youth Go Green and TOA on this initiative.” He appreciated Youth Go Green for inviting the Army through the UPDF-Airforce to participate in this impactful initiative.
“We are thrilled to partner with Youth Go Green on this vital initiative,” said Pramesh Ramparsad, CEO-TOA Uganda. “At TOA, we are committed to supporting and promoting environmental sustainability across Uganda. This initiative aligns perfectly with our company’s goal on sustainability and climate action and with this collaboration, we hope to do more in the coming years.”
Edwin Muhumuza, CEO and Team Lead, Youth Go Green, expressed his gratitude to TOA for sponsoring the initiative. “This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to environmental conservation. We look forward to rolling out this initiative across Uganda and we target to mobilize and engage 20 million youth to be part of this initiative to make a lasting impact on our environment.”
The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to promote environmental conservation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to NFA, Uganda’s current deforestation rate stands at 2% annually, with an average of 122,000 hectares lost every year.
“We commend Youth Go Green and TOA for taking the lead in environmental conservation,” said Tony Achidria – Senior Environment Awareness Officer – NEMA who represented the Executive Director-NEMA at the event. “This initiative will not only help to restore our environment but also educate young people about the importance of tree growing and environmental conservation.”
The Ministry of Water and Environment also welcomed the initiative, stating that it aligns with the government’s efforts to plant 40million trees by 2030 under the ROOTs Campaign. Ms.Irene Nanyondo – Senior Forestry Officer, represented the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Alfred Okidi at the function, emphasized the importance of growing trees by the young people to reduce the impacts of climate change.
The National Green Schools and Restoration campaign is a five-year initiative that aims to promote environmental sustainability, and green spaces in schools across Uganda. The initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the environment, educating young people about the importance of tree growing and environmental conservation.
