Why trees are a green gold in combating climate change

Highlights

• Madi and West Nile diocese has planted over 1 million trees
• 500 hectares of degraded forest land is under restoration
• 2,000 households actively involved in tree growing

 By Matata Benzamin

On February 17, 2017, amidst the jubilant enthronement of Rt. Rev. Charles Collins Andaku as Bishop of Madi West Nile Diocese, a vision was planted both literally and figuratively.

At that time, the bishop launched a transformative tree planting and growing campaign to combat the increasing impacts of climate change in the West Nile region.

“Before and during my enthronement, I saw the deteriorating state of our environment which made me sad because this has affected the livelihood of many families,” Rt. Rev. Charles Collins Andaku said.

With most parts of the region becoming bare, Bishop Andaku said: “Deforestation was rampant, and the effects of climate change prolonged droughts, floods, and poor agricultural yields were taking a heavy toll on our people. It was clear that something had to be done. Trees are our green gold, let’s embrace tree planting.”

Inspirational

 …I planted a eucalyptus tree which later I cut after maturity and provided me with transport money that I used to fly to the UK. Trees have many benefits including provision of shade, formation of rainfall, firewood, food, money and among others

The bishop’s initiative aimed to restore the environment and combat climate change while addressing the socioeconomic challenges facing the region. It quickly gained support from diocesan leaders, environmental activists, local governments, and community.

Concerned: Bishop Collins Andaku sharing word on how the tree campaign combats climate change. Images by Matata Benzamin.

While tracking the efforts of the church, for the past seven years, so far one million tree seedlings were planted, and more than 500 hectares of degraded land have been restored.

The statistics from the diocese indicate that over 2,000 households have directly benefited. The campaign has grown into a symbol of environmental sustainability, improved livelihoods and community resilience.

The diocese

Madi and West Nile diocese, having 13 Archdeaconries across the region, have been implementing the tree planting campaign since it was launched. Independent department has been established to oversee environmental issues from dioceses to the local churches.

This is meant to scale up the efforts of restoration, ensuring that Christians make money out of the trees planted and conserving the environment.

Sustainability efforts

The diocese has declared every third week of March as Environment week, climaxed by Tree Sunday, aiming to sensitize the community to plant and grow as many trees as possible consisting of both fruit and non-fruit trees to combat the effects of climate change.

The Diocesan Coordinator for Household and Community Transformation, Mungulemi Jesca, said: “Our work combines tree planting and growing with education on agroforestry and sustainable farming. We encourage families to plant fruit trees like mangoes, oranges, and avocados. These trees not only mitigate climate change but also enhance food security and provide income.”

Beneficiaries take

Over 2,000 households have adopted this model. One such family is that of Atiku Ronald, A tree warden at Emmanuel Cathedral in Mvara, said: “We used to struggle with poor harvests due to negative effects of climate change such as heavy rainfall or drought. But during this campaign, I have experienced that there is far more change in crop yield than in the past.”

The trees have improved the soil and provide fruits that feed my family and generate income. They have prevented climate change effects through reforestation and planting trees that absorb carbon in the atmosphere

No giving up: Atiku Ronald, Environment Activist and Tree Warden Emmanuel Cathedral Mvara.

Restoring nature’s balance

Deforestation is a major driver of climate change in West Nile. According to Environmental Activist, Alfred Olega, forests act as carbon sinks, reducing the greenhouse gases that drive global warming.

“By planting over a million trees, the diocese has boosted forest cover, helping regulate temperatures and restore biodiversity,” he said.

The campaign prioritizes planting indigenous tree species such as Mahogany, Moringa, Teak, Pines, and others which thrive in the local ecosystem and support wildlife, ensuring both climate and ecological benefits.

Youth involvement

Youth engagement has been a cornerstone to the initiative. Bayo Francis, Youth Chairperson for Ayivu Division in Arua city, has been instrumental in mobilizing young people.

“Through this campaign, we have gained skills in nursery management and sustainable land use. It is not just about planting trees, but it is about fostering responsibility and care for nature,” he noted.

SURVEY ON FOREST LOSS IN WEST NILE REGION, UGANDA BETWEEN 2000 – 2017

The overview: The map showing the tree loss in the West Nile sub-region.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite its success, the campaign has faced hurdles, including limited funding, inadequate tools, and occasional resistance from some community members.

Partnerships have been vital in addressing these challenges. Organizations like the National Forestry Authority and local governments have provided resources like tree seedlings and technical support.

Dawaru Mary, Arua City Environment Officer noted that: “Together, we have amplified awareness and expanded the impact of this campaign. People planting other types of trees like eucalyptus in the buffer zones or wetlands are draining out the water and others build in wetlands which in turn affects them.”

Efforts: Dawaru Mary, Arua City Environment Officer

Building a resilient future

As climate change continues to pose challenges, the Madi West Nile Diocese’s campaign serves as a blueprint for resilience. Its emphasis on sustainability, education, and community ownership ensures lasting impact.

The diocese plans to plant and grow at least 10 million trees by 2030. They also plan to explore renewable energy solutions and water conservation projects.

The diocesan tree planting campaign is more than an environmental project to combat climate, but it is a movement of hope and transformation. By addressing deforestation, poverty, and climate change, it has laid the foundation for a sustainable future.

As the trees grow and their roots deepen, they symbolize not only the strength of the environment but also the unwavering commitment of the communities that planted them.

The church authorities say the campaign is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for a better world.

This story was produced with support from InfoNile under the Climate Smart Agriculture project.