In a powerful show of community collaboration and environmental stewardship, the Uganda Rural Development and Training Programme (URDT), African Rural University (ARU), and the Rotaract Club of Kagadi have joined hands with Kagadi Town Council in the ongoing “Go Green Campaign,” planting over 800 trees along Kagadi town streets, including the Kagadi–Hoima road.
Since its inception in 1987 and with Kagadi as its home base, URDT has been actively promoting environmental conservation and protection through community-driven initiatives such as tree planting, sustainable agriculture, ecological education, and waste management. URDT integrates environmental awareness into its training programs and partners with local governments, schools, and organizations to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and climate resilience in rural communities.
The tree-planting exercise, which started at URDT–Referendum Road, passed through the URDT main gate, Nakulabye, and extended to the Kitonzi Cell junction, was led by Mr. John Tusiime, Head of Community Engagement at ARU.
“This campaign reflects the power of unity in safeguarding our environment,” Mr. Tusiime stated. “We are committed to further initiatives such as forming ecological clubs, organizing town clean-up days, and holding environmental workshops to deepen community awareness.”
Ms. Nalubega Matilda, President of the Rotaract Club of Kagadi, praised the town council for initiating the campaign and highlighted the Rotaract Club’s contribution of 1,000 tree seedlings to the project.
“Environmental conservation is one of Rotary’s key focus areas,” she said. “We are proud to support a greener, cleaner Kagadi and deeply appreciate the ongoing collaboration with URDT and ARU.”
Kagadi Town Mayor Geoffrey Businge applauded the joint effort and reiterated the council’s commitment to protecting and maintaining the newly planted trees.
“This is just the beginning,” the Mayor said. “We encourage every household to embrace the green campaign to transform Kagadi into a model town for environmental health.”
Principal Town Clerk, Mr. Isingoma John, also commended URDT for its continued efforts in raising awareness on environmental protection and acknowledged the Rotaract Club for donating the tree seedlings, which were sourced from WWF.
“This campaign is a shining example of what we can achieve when institutions and communities come together,” he noted. “I call on all residents and organizations to join this effort and livestock owners must ensure their animals do not destroy the trees.”
As the “Go Green Campaign” gains momentum, Kagadi is fast becoming an inspiration of environmental consciousness and sustainable development in western Uganda. With continued efforts and community participation, the town is well on its way to setting a regional standard for environmental stewardship.
