How Tree-Planting Efforts are Transforming the West Nile.
News
Robert Ezati, 57, from Adim Parish, Beliafe Subcounty in West Nile District, Terego, has witnessed profound environmental changes in his community due to deforestation for tobacco cultivation. Over the years, climate change has exacerbated drier weather patterns, diminishing crop yields once abundant.
Moved by the deteriorating conditions, Ezati took action. He halted tree felling and initiated a tree-planting initiative, offering workers daily wages of Shs 5,000 ($1.3) to plant trees. These efforts have revitalized the landscape, with intercropping of trees like sorghum and cassava enhancing food security.
Through collaboration with the Ecological Christian Organization, Ezati gained valuable knowledge and resources, facilitating the restoration of 2,279 hectares of forests and 400 hectares of wetlands in his district. This initiative is particularly vital as the area hosts a large refugee population from South Sudan and other countries, intensifying resource pressures.
Supported by the European Union Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, the project aims to sustainably manage ecosystems, improve livelihoods, and mitigate environmental degradation caused by refugees and local communities. Harriet Tumushabe, project manager, highlighted achievements in sustainable land management, agroforestry, and ecosystem restoration across several districts.
The project has successfully restored central forest reserves and established woodlots, promoting alternative livelihoods like fruit cultivation and beekeeping. These efforts not only support families economically but also discourage environmentally harmful activities such as charcoal burning.
Overall, the project exemplifies effective collaboration and sustainable practices in addressing environmental challenges in Uganda's refugee-hosting regions.