Equity Bank Uganda has initiated a two-year Green Schools Programme aimed at environmental conservation. The program targets planting 200,000 trees across Uganda by December 2027. It began with Nakanyonyi Secondary School in Kalagi, Mukono District, where 50,000 trees will be planted in 25 schools across 10 districts. This initiative is part of Equity Bank's broader goal to protect the environment and support sustainable development.
The Green Schools Programme is designed to deliver lasting environmental benefits while creating measurable impact under Equity's Environmental, Social and Governance agenda. Equity Bank Managing Director Gift Shoko stated that the program contributes to Equity's wider ambition of planting 35 million trees across East Africa. The bank will plant an additional 150,000 trees through dedicated school orchards in 2027, creating a lasting legacy for environmental conservation.
The launch ceremony was presided over by Minister of Public Service and Patron of My Tree Initiative, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala. He urged environment watchdogs to take strong actions against individuals who degrade the environment. Katumba emphasized the importance of restoring Uganda's environment, which has been severely disturbed, leading to extreme weather conditions.
The government, through the Ministry of Water, Lands and Environment, has promised to support restoration efforts across the country. Eng Sowed Sewagudde, Acting Permanent Secretary, stated that the government will complement efforts of Equity Bank and other private players in environmental conservation. This partnership builds on earlier collaborative milestones between Equity Bank and My Tree Initiative.
The project will roll out in two phases to maximize its impact on schools. Phase 1, running through the end of 2026, focuses on planting and protecting 50,000 trees across 25 schools in 10 districts in Uganda. In 2027, the program will expand to plant an additional 150,000 trees through school orchards, supporting the bank's sustainability goals.
Enjer Ashiraf, Executive Director of My Tree Initiative, highlighted the value of collaborative efforts in driving environmental action. He appreciated Equity Bank for their generous partnership in spearheading the annual Green Schools Program. The bank has previously supported My Tree Initiative in planting 1,500 trees at Kyasanku Hill College in Mpigi District.
George Wateta, Head Teacher of Nakanyonyi Secondary School, welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation to the partners for selecting their institution to host the launch. He believes that engaging students in environmental restoration will nurture responsible citizens who appreciate the value of protecting nature. This initiative supports Equity Group's regional target to plant 35 million trees across East Africa under its Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan.
Key points
- Equity Bank aims to plant 200,000 trees across Uganda by December 2027.
- The program is part of Equity Bank's broader goal to plant 35 million trees across East Africa.
- The initiative aims to address Uganda's biodiversity crisis and promote environmental stewardship.
