Drought destroys over 20,000 tree seedlings worth Shs 74 million in Alebtong district

25 September 2026, 4:44 pm

By Baker Okello

Only 37 of the 20,312 planted pine seedlings in Alebtong district have survived as the district counted losses of about 74 million shillings after prolonged drought destroyed more than 20,000 pine tree seedlings planted under a major environmental restoration campaign.

Speaking to our reporter, Mr. Athanance Kalyedara the Alebtong Deputy Chief Administrative Officer confirmed that the district had planned to restore seven local forest reserves, beginning with three reserves; Te-Iconga, Te-Iponga and another reserve in Alebtong Town Council.

Kalyedara said the campaign was launched at Te-Iconga Forest Reserve in Aloi Town Council, where district leaders and community members planted 20,312 seedlings as part of the district’s reforestation programme for the 2025/2026 financial year.

He however stressed that the district’s efforts to restore degraded ecosystems and improve environmental conservation has been severely affected by prolonged drought linked to climate change.

Te-Iconga Forest Reserve covers 54 acres, with 32.5 acres earmarked for restoration.

The tree-planting initiative formed part of broader efforts by the district to support Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan and Vision 2040, which prioritize environmental conservation, restoration of degraded ecosystems and sustainable management of natural resources.