Kiryandongo to champion forest restoration
“When people know their land is secure, they are more likely to invest in long-term environmental initiatives like tree planting,” Akweteireho remarked.
Kiryandongo: Kiryandongo District is set to embark on an ambitious journey to promote environmental sustainability and improve livelihoods for local farmers.
The Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate Smart Development (IFPA-CD) project, funded by the World Bank, aims to mobilize farmers to establish and maintain forests while fostering climate-resilient development.
With a target of creating 9,754 hectares of new woodlots across 19 districts in Uganda, Kiryandongo is poised to take a leading role in this transformative initiative.
During the project’s inception meeting held at the district headquarters, Anselm Kyaligonza, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), emphasized the need to focus not only on establishing new forests but also on managing existing ones. He urged the NIRAS consultants and the IFPA-CD team to prioritize supporting current forest owners through resources and technical guidance.
“By helping those who already own forests to manage them better, we can inspire others to follow suit. This will create a ripple effect of environmental stewardship throughout the district,” Kyaligonza said.
According to Steve Nsita from NIRAS Consultants, the project will provide funding for extension services to train farmers in sustainable forestry management practices. He added that the establishment of tree nursery beds will ensure the propagation of native tree species suited to local conditions.
Nsita also revealed that after six months of caring for newly planted trees, farmers will receive subsidies to motivate and reward their efforts in sustainable forestry.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Akweteireho, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), proposed that the government consider free land titling for individuals who establish and maintain forests. He noted that securing land ownership would encourage community members to invest more in forestry, aligning environmental conservation with economic growth.
“When people know their land is secure, they are more likely to invest in long-term environmental initiatives like tree planting,” Akweteireho remarked.
He further called on the district leadership to remain actively engaged with World Bank projects and other development partner initiatives. By continuously evaluating their impact on local livelihoods and the wider economy, Akweteireho said, stakeholders can ensure that projects like IFPA-CD deliver sustainable and inclusive benefits.
The IFPA-CD project represents more than a reforestation effort—it symbolizes a commitment to community empowerment, climate resilience, and sustainable development. As Kiryandongo mobilizes its farmers to participate, the district stands to become a model for balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
Through a combination of financial support, capacity building, and community incentives, the project creates opportunities for both people and nature to thrive together.
The IFPA-CD initiative is not only restoring forests but also rebuilding hope demonstrating how collective action can safeguard Uganda’s natural resources while improving livelihoods for generations to come.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
