By Jumah Kakomo
Environmental conservation organization My Tree Initiative, together with its partners, on Friday launched a campaign to plant 3,000 trees across the country at Atalas High School in Gayaza, Wakiso District, in a move aimed at promoting climate action and environmental conservation among students and surrounding communities.
The campaign, which targets the planting of indigenous and fruit trees within the school compounds and neighboring areas, is expected to run until the end of next month.
Speaking during the launch, the Executive Director of My Tree Initiative, Mr. Enjer Ashiraf Ddumba, said the project seeks to involve young people in the fight against climate change by making tree planting a long-term culture in schools.
“The fight against climate change starts with young people. We want tree planting to become part of the culture in schools, not just a one-day event,” Ddumba said.
Several fruit trees were planted during the launch ceremony as students, teachers, Rotary members, and other stakeholders participated in the exercise.
Ddumba said students would also be trained as “Tree Ambassadors” to monitor the growth of the trees, protect them, and educate fellow students and surrounding communities about the importance of forests, clean air, and soil conservation.
He called upon government agencies, the private sector, and educational institutions to support similar initiatives across the country.
“Our goal is to plant millions of trees across Uganda and help communities adapt to climate change while creating green spaces for future generations,” he said, adding: “Every tree planted today is oxygen, shade, and life for tomorrow.”
The Headteacher of Atalas High School, Mr. Ronald Waswa, welcomed the initiative, describing tree planting as one of the most practical ways Ugandans can contribute to environmental restoration.
He noted that changing weather patterns, including prolonged dry spells and heavy rainfall, are signs of environmental degradation that require urgent action.
“Planting trees now is a way of protecting the next generation from climate-related shocks,” Waswa said.
Students participated by planting the first batch of seedlings and pledged to care for them.
The President of Rotary Club Namugongo, Dr. John Kameri, who officiated as chief guest, said environmental conservation remains one of Rotary International’s seven areas of focus.
“Tree planting reflects one of our core values as Rotary. We are committed to environmental conservation because it directly affects health, food security, and climate stability,” Dr. Kameri said.
He warned that Uganda continues to lose forest cover at an alarming rate and urged families, schools, churches, and businesses to make tree planting part of their everyday culture.
“Every Ugandan can plant at least one tree every year. If we all do that, the young generation will inherit a greener and healthier country,” he said.
Rotary members also planted fruit and indigenous trees during the exercise and pledged to monitor their growth.
Dr. Kameri added that the club would continue partnering with schools to train students as environmental stewards.
“Service above self means thinking beyond our lifetime. A tree planted today will benefit generations to come,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of AAR General Insurance, Ms. Nassuuna Christine, raised concern over the shrinking availability of green spaces in urban areas due to rapid urbanization and unplanned construction.
“The biggest challenge we face today is the lack of places to plant trees. As cities grow, every inch of land is covered with concrete,” she said.
Nassuuna called on government to introduce stricter urban planning policies requiring developers to leave space for trees and landscaping.
She proposed mandatory green zones, tree-lined streets, and landscaping requirements as part of building approvals for new developments.
“Trees are not just decorative; they are critical for reducing heat, improving air quality, and managing storm water,” she said.
She added that climate-related risks continue to affect both individuals and businesses, emphasizing the need for preventive environmental action.
“As AAR General Insurance, we support tree planting because climate-related risks directly affect people’s lives and businesses. But insurance cannot replace a tree. Prevention starts with planning,” Nassuuna said.
She further urged schools, offices, and estate developers to integrate environmental conservation into construction plans from the beginning.
“Let’s build cities that breathe. If we don’t create space for trees now, the next generation will inherit heat islands instead of green cities,” she added.
The Branch Supervisor of Centenary Bank Gayaza, Ms. Agnes Nakajumba, encouraged students to plant at least five to ten trees during every school holiday while at home.
She said Centenary Bank remains committed to supporting environmental conservation initiatives across the country because of their importance in protecting future generations.
“If every Ugandan planted and cared for just five trees, we would transform this country within 10 years,” Nakajumba said.
