Kyambadde Joins Equity Bank, My Tree Initiative in Major Mpigi Tree Planting Drive

Mawokota North MP Amelia Kyambadde has joined Equity Bank Uganda and My Tree Initiative in a large-scale tree planting exercise aimed at strengthening climate action and environmental conservation in Mpigi District.

The exercise, held at Kyasanku Hill College, saw the school dedicate 1.5 acres of land for restoration, with a commitment to nurture a mix of 1,500 indigenous and fruit tree species.

The initiative forms part of Equity Bank Uganda’s broader sustainability agenda under Equity Group’s Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), which targets the planting of 35 million trees across East Africa. The programme positions environmental conservation as a key driver of economic transformation, food security, climate resilience and community wellbeing.

My Tree Initiative, a youth-led environmental organisation, has in recent years built partnerships with corporate entities, government institutions and communities to advance restoration efforts and climate awareness across Uganda.

Speaking during the exercise, Kyambadde, who also served as the chief planter, commended the partnership for bringing together the private sector, schools and communities to tackle climate change.

“Climate action requires collective responsibility, and today’s partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when corporate institutions, schools and communities work together. I encourage more organisations to support similar initiatives that strengthen climate resilience and sustainable development,” she said.

Virginia Ssemakula, Manager for Energy, Environment and Climate Change at Equity Bank Uganda, said sustainability remains central to the bank’s mission.

“At Equity Bank, we believe that economic growth and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand. Our commitment to tree planting is not just about increasing forest cover, but also protecting ecosystems, strengthening resilience, promoting food security and securing a sustainable future for generations,” she said.

Bukenya Ashiraf, Team Leader at My Tree Initiative, emphasized the importance of partnerships in tackling climate change.

“Tree planting is about more than restoring forests; it is about restoring hope, protecting livelihoods and securing the future of our communities. Through partnerships, we are creating practical solutions while empowering young people to take ownership of the climate agenda,” he said.

Kyasanku Hill College head teacher Leonard Ssennyonjo welcomed the initiative, describing it as a milestone for the school.

“By involving students in environmental restoration, we are nurturing responsible citizens who understand the importance of protecting nature. These trees will serve as a living classroom and a lasting legacy for future generations,” he said.

The Mpigi exercise highlights the growing role of schools as centres for climate education and environmental action. By directly engaging students, the programme aims to build a generation of environmentally conscious leaders while restoring degraded ecosystems.

The initiative also builds on ongoing environmental efforts, including a greening campaign in the Bugisu sub-region aimed at planting over 60,000 trees, as well as restoration of water catchment areas in Kasese District to help mitigate flooding.

As climate change continues to threaten ecosystems, agriculture and livelihoods, such partnerships are increasingly seen as critical in driving sustainable development across Uganda.

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