Church of Uganda Steps Up Tree-Planting Drive to Protect Environment

29 September 2026, 7:53 pm

By otim moses

The Church of Uganda is stepping up its campaign to protect the environment, with plans to plant more than 400 million trees by 2027.
The initiative is aimed at increasing tree cover, combating environmental degradation and helping communities respond to the effects of climate change.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, His Grace Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, made the remarks during his farewell message at the Diocese of Kitgum on Saturday, 26 September 2026.
Archbishop Kazimba said environmentaprotection should be the responsibility of every citizen, regardless of religious affiliation.
He urged Christians and non-Christians to work together in activities such as tree planting, cleaning communities and properly managing waste.

The Archbishop also encouraged parents to involve children in environmental activities, including collecting rubbish, clearing bushes and planting trees.
He said schools and other learning institutions should have proper latrines and rubbish pits to improve sanitation and protect children from diseases.
He further called for greater participation in environmental activities, saying tree planting can help address land degradation and desertification.
Meanwhile, the State Minister for Water and Environment, Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywar, commended the Church of Uganda for promoting tree planting and environmental conservation.
Minister Anywar said protecting the environment is directly linked to protecting people’s livelihoods.
She encouraged communities to plant fruit trees such as mangoes, oranges and avocados, which can provide food and income while contributing to environmental conservation.

Minister Anywar also urged communities to protect water sources, including lakes, rivers and wetlands.
She encouraged farmers to adopt climate-resilient farming practices and said government would support the Church of Uganda’s tree-planting initiative.
The Church’s campaign comes at a time when environmental protection, restoration of degraded land, proper waste management and protection of water sources remain important measures for building resilient communities.