KCCA, Absa Bank Restore 4.9 Acres of Forest to Conserve Environment

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Absa Bank Uganda have planted 3,300 trees at KCCA’s Agricultural Resource Center in Kyanja. This effort, commemorating World Environment Day, restored 4.9 acres of forest cover and emphasized land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience under the theme: “Our Land, Our Future. We are Generation Restoration.”

Enhancing Urban Air Quality

Isaac Mugumbule, KCCA’s head of the landscaping unit, highlighted the initiative’s goal to enhance air quality for Kampala residents through the Greening Kampala initiative. “We aim to plant over 30,000 trees across Kampala, focusing on both planting and nurturing these trees to ensure their survival in the urban environment,” Mugumbule stated. He noted the unique challenge of maintaining tree survival in a city with a fluctuating population of about 2 million people daily.

Strategic Location and Tree Selection

The Agricultural Resource Center was chosen for this initiative due to its status as a learning center with an encroached wetland. KCCA is actively restoring this wetland through tree planting. “We are planting taller trees that will mature in about two years to address climate change effects, such as hotter days and reduced rainfall,” Mugumbule explained.

Addressing Urbanization Challenges

Kampala’s rapid urbanization has led to several environmental challenges, including the loss of wetland biodiversity, habitat destruction, deteriorating water quality, and frequent flooding. This tree-planting initiative is a strategic response to these issues, aiming to restore natural drainage patterns and enhance urban resilience.

Maintenance and Long-term Care

Absa’s company secretary and director of the legal department, Ocen Edward, emphasized the importance of maintaining the planted trees. “About 250 foresters will manage and maintain these trees to ensure they grow well and benefit the city,” Ocen said. He also highlighted the critical role of public and private sector collaboration in addressing urban environmental challenges.

Focus on Indigenous Trees

The initiative particularly focuses on planting indigenous fruit trees, aligning with efforts to increase tree survival rates in the community. Data from KCCA indicates that over 80% of the trees in Kampala are foreign species with low survival rates. By planting indigenous trees, this project aims to boost biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Partnership for Sustainable Development

The tree planting is part of a broader three-year partnership between KCCA and Absa Bank Uganda, with Absa dedicating UGX 490 million towards environmental sustainability, skilling women and youth, and promoting behavioral change. This partnership also supports youth skilling programs through KCCA’s Employment Services Bureau and Youth Centers, enhancing employability and job creation by providing financial literacy and essential money skills.