Uganda Baati and National Forestry Authority in partnership for Sustainable Environmental Transformation in Uganda

Uganda Baati and National Forestry Authority in partnership for Sustainable Environmental Transformation in Uganda

In a significant step towards environmental protection and sustainable development, the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and Uganda Baati (UBL) came together through a Memorandum of Understanding. This momentous collaboration has given rise to a commendable tree planting initiative, reaffirming both entities' dedication to preserving Uganda's natural resources and combatting climate change.

The joint effort is set to replant a staggering 40 hectares of indigenous trees across the country, with 20 hectares already successfully replanted as part of the "Every Tree Counts" Campaign. Notably, these reforestation efforts have been carried out in the Bajo Central Forest Reserve in Kayunga District and the Mubuku Central Forest Reserve in Kasese District.

On the 24th of July 2023, a delegation from Uganda Baati, led by Mr. Ian Rumanyika, the Head of External & Corporate Affairs, paid a courteous visit to the National Forestry Authority (NFA) to engage in meaningful discussions. The primary aim of the visit was to explore potential partnerships and collaborations, specifically in relation to Uganda Baati's upcoming environmental campaign, "Safal Eye in the Wild" (SEIW). The team sought opportunities to work hand in hand with NFA to raise awareness about environmental conservation and address the pressing issues of drought and climate change.

SEIW, an initiative falling under the environment pillar of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation's four focus social investment pillars, contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 13 (Climate Change) and SDG 17 (Partnerships).

The SEIW campaign's primary goal is to raise awareness and educate people about the imminent dangers posed by drought and climate change. By disseminating critical information and fostering a deeper understanding of these issues, the campaign empowers individuals and communities to take proactive steps towards mitigating and adapting to the challenges presented by drought and climate change.

The Executive Director of NFA, Mr. Tom Okello, commended Uganda Baati for its commitment to protecting the environment, emphasizing that such initiatives bring about positive change in the country. He stressed the importance of tailored discussions related to the environment, citing examples of the detrimental effects of deforestation on local communities and the environment.

“We need to start having these discussions related to the environment and tailor make them to our current situation. For example you cannot remove a forest from a slop and you live there, you will be buried when the rains come. River Manafwa no longer exists, it’s now a river bed because it’s catchment on was destroyed when they cleared the forest on Mountain Elgon.” He said.

Overall, the partnership between NFA and Uganda Baati is bring about an environmental transformation in Uganda. The two organizations are demonstrating the economic growth and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand, and that the businesses can play an active role in promoting sustainable development. By working together, the NFA and Uganda Baati are helping to preserve Uganda’s natural resources for the future generations and promoting a more sustainable and equitable future for all.