Uganda's ambitious agroforestry project is making waves in the fight against deforestation and climate change. The government, with the support of the World Bank and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), is planting a forest of hope in refugee-hosting districts. By 2026, the goal is to plant over 2.4 million trees and engage nearly 11,000 farmers, a significant step towards restoring forest cover and boosting food security. But here's where it gets interesting: the project tackles a major driver of deforestation in Uganda - the high demand for fuelwood and charcoal. With rapid population growth, this pressure on land and natural resources is intensifying, especially in refugee-hosting districts. The Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate Smart Development (IFPA-CD) Project, funded by the World Bank, is a game-changer. CRS is implementing the project under the title “Intensive Mixed Use Agroforestry Systems on Household Plots”, focusing on 19 districts in Western and Northern Uganda. This innovative approach integrates trees, crops, and livestock, aiming to address environmental degradation, improve food security, and enhance livelihoods. Joseph Ebinu, program manager at CRS, emphasizes the project's goal: to support government efforts in mitigating and adapting to climate change while balancing community needs with conservation. The project's impact is already evident. Since its launch, it has achieved remarkable milestones: 13,739.7 hectares of land committed for restoration, 10,509 farmers registered and actively participating, and 2,449,688 trees distributed with an impressive 85% survival rate. Hajj Abdalah Yusuf Banya, a project participant, shares his enthusiasm: "I'm excited about the benefits for my family. We'll have fruits for the children, sell wood for fuel, and earn school fees for generations." The project doesn't stop at planting trees; it creates sustainable livelihoods and market linkages. By connecting farmers with service providers and initiating market linkages for produce, it ensures the long-term success and environmental sustainability of the initiative. The Koboko District Forest Officer, Ojia Gilbert, praises the project's impact: "Five years ago, Koboko's forest cover was only 14%. This project is a significant step towards improving forest cover and addressing climate change." The project's success lies in its holistic approach, addressing environmental degradation, food security, and soil fertility, all while empowering communities to thrive sustainably.
