In a bold move to promote environmental sustainability and combat the escalating impacts of climate change, Youth Go Green in partnership with TowerCo of Africa–Uganda (TOA) has launched the National Green Schools and Restoration Initiative, a nationwide campaign targeting the planting and nurturing of 20 million trees by 2030.
The program, which kicked off in Entebbe Municipality on Friday, will begin with the planting of over 8,000 fruit and indigenous tree seedlings across 16 schools, as part of efforts to promote climate action and environmental stewardship among young people.
According to the National Forestry Authority (NFA), Uganda loses an estimated 122,000 hectares of forest cover annually, representing a deforestation rate of about 2 percent per year. The new campaign aims to reverse this trend through school-based environmental education and large-scale reforestation efforts.
The launch event, held in Entebbe, was attended by representatives from key government agencies including the Ministry of Water and Environment, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), National Forestry Authority (NFA) amongst others. The function was graced by Maj. Gen. David Insimbwa, Deputy Commander of the UPDF Air Force, who represented the Commander UPDF Air Force 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,” Maj. Gen. Insimbwa stated, commending the collaboration for involving the army in a cause that benefits both people and planet.
Mr. Pramesh Ramparsad, TOA Uganda CEO, in his remarks reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental conservation.
“We are thrilled to partner with Youth Go Green on this vital initiative. At TOA, sustainability and climate action are at the core of our operations. This partnership reinforces our long-term vision to create a greener, more resilient Uganda,” he said.
Mr. Edwin Muhumuza, CEO and Team Lead of Youth Go Green, lauded TOA for its support, emphasizing the role of young people in driving sustainable change.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to environmental protection. We aim to mobilize and engage over 20 million young people to take part in tree planting and environmental restoration across the country,” he said.
Representing the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Mr. Tony Achidria, Senior Environment Awareness Officer, praised the partnership for taking practical action toward environmental restoration.
“This initiative will not only help restore degraded ecosystems but also instill a culture of environmental responsibility among students and youth,” Mr. Achidria remarked.
Similarly, Ms. Irene Nanyondo, Senior Forestry Officer at the Ministry of Water and Environment, who represented the Permanent Secretary Mr. Alfred Okidi, applauded the program, noting that it complements the government’s ROOTs Campaign, which seeks to plant 40 million trees by 2030.
The National Green Schools and Restoration Initiative is a five-year program designed to integrate environmental education into school activities while creating greener, healthier learning environments. The project is expected to make a lasting contribution to Uganda’s reforestation goals and foster a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.