Kikuube Youth Embrace Tree Planting for Climate Resilience and Livelihoods

Young people in Kikuube District, Uganda, are embracing tree planting and sustainable forestry as a vital pathway toward environmental conservation, climate resilience, and securing long-term livelihoods. This movement aligns with the global observance of International Youth Day and is supported by organizations like the Environmental Conservation Trust of Uganda (ECOTRUST).

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Even though I am young, my fellow youth voted for me as a councillor because they believe in my ability and capacity to serve them and positively contribute to the development of my community.

Through conservation and climate-smart agriculture programs, ECOTRUST is equipping young farmers with essential knowledge, skills, and opportunities in agroforestry and sustainable land management. The goal is to cultivate a new generation of environmental stewards capable of restoring Uganda's landscapes while simultaneously enhancing household incomes and community resilience.

Kato Nelson Mandela, the newly elected Youth Councillor for Kiziranfumbi Sub-county, exemplifies this trend. Since taking office in May 2026, he has prioritized environmental conservation, especially commercial tree planting, as central to his community development vision. Kato views tree planting not merely as an environmental activity but as a crucial long-term investment in climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

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Our district has oil, and when extraction begins, there are fears that emissions could affect air quality. This is why it is important to plant trees to secure our future. Youth participation in this process is crucial.

Kikuube District is at the forefront of Uganda's emerging oil economy, presenting both economic growth opportunities and environmental concerns related to industrial activity. Kato emphasizes the role of tree planting in bolstering environmental resilience as oil extraction expands. He notes the fears surrounding potential air quality impacts from emissions and stresses the importance of youth involvement in planting trees to safeguard the future. Despite these efforts, challenges such as limited land access and insufficient awareness of forestry opportunities persist for some youth.

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My desire for tree planting was strengthened by the awareness I got from ECOTRUST. Through their Farmer's Voice Radio programme, I learned more about tree planting and the IFPA-CDA Woodlot Programme, which I wanted to join.