On September 27, 2024, Treescape Planet Organization, in collaboration with Samasource Uganda (https://www.sama.com/), launched the Sama Green Tree Planting Initiative at East Kololo Primary School, Kampala. This event marked a pivotal moment in promoting environmental sustainability and community engagement in Uganda.

The initiative, part of Samasource’s global CSR efforts, focuses on combating deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change through active tree planting and environmental education. Over 150 native and fruit-bearing trees were planted by pupils, teachers, Samasource employees, and local community members, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment.

Key achievements include:

1. Tree Planting: 150 trees planted at East Kololo Primary School, with a significant additional support of 90 trees for Gombe Secondary School, furthering our efforts in environmental education and green school initiatives.
2. Engaging Employees: Samasource employees actively participated in the planting process, helping to bridge the gap between corporate responsibility and community engagement.
3. Training Sessions: Special training sessiosn were held for employees focusing on environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.
4. Environmental Education: Hands-on sessions that educated students and community members on biodiversity, the importance of trees, and sustainable practices.
5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Samasource’s continued involvement demonstrates the potential for corporate entities to play a significant role in environmental conservation.

As we look ahead, the Sama Green Initiative will expand to more schools, with a focus on ensuring the long-term survival of planted trees and engaging local communities in tree care. Future phases of the project include regular monitoring, reporting, and forging additional partnerships to scale the initiative across Uganda.

This initiative serves as a model for how partnerships between NGOs, corporations, and communities can drive impactful, sustainable change.

Join Our Corporate Sustainability Movement

At Treescape Planet, we believe that collaboration is key to making a lasting impact. The Sama Green Tree Planting Initiative is just the beginning of our commitment to environmental sustainability, and we’re inviting more corporate partners to join us in this journey. By becoming a part of our Corporate Sustainability – CSR Partnership Program, your organization can actively contribute to environmental conservation, foster community engagement, and help tackle climate change in Uganda.

We are seeking corporate partners who are passionate about driving positive change and looking to integrate sustainability into their CSR efforts. Together, we can make a meaningful difference, one tree at a time.

Ready to Get Involved?

Join our partnership program today and be part of the solution for a greener future.

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On October 26th, 2024, Treescape Planet hosted an impactful event in Gombe, Uganda, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, empowering women smallholder farmers, and fostering environmental stewardship among the youth. This tree-planting initiative not only contributed to environmental conservation but also strengthened our ongoing commitment to building resilient communities through education and action.

A Day of Action for a Greener Future

The event kicked off with a community gathering of local women farmers, students, and volunteers, who came together to plant over 1,000 native and fruit tree saplings in the surrounding areas of Gombe Secondary School. The tree-planting activity was part of our broader mission to restore ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and engage the local community in climate action. The event was designed to empower women smallholder farmers by providing them with the knowledge and resources to lead sustainable agricultural practices while supporting students in their journey towards environmental advocacy.

Training and Awareness Sessions

Before the tree planting commenced, the day featured insightful training and awareness sessions for both women farmers and students. Over 30 women smallholder farmers received practical training on sustainable farming techniques and climate-smart agriculture, which will help them improve their resilience to climate change while enhancing their agricultural productivity. In addition, 300 students from Gombe Secondary School participated in educational sessions on sustainable tourism, reforestation, and the importance of preserving natural resources.

These sessions were an integral part of the event as they empowered participants to take ownership of their environment and become advocates for sustainable practices in their communities.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of the event was due to the collective effort of local leaders, community members, and corporate partners. We are deeply grateful for the contributions from our sponsors, including Sama Source, Stanbic Bank, Centenary Bank, Active Gorilla Safaris, and Roofings Uganda Limited, whose support made the event possible.

Through these partnerships, we were able to provide much-needed resources, such as tree saplings, tools, and educational materials, which were key to the event’s success. The collaborative spirit of the event embodied our shared commitment to creating a more sustainable and eco-conscious community.

Winning the Best ESG Campaign Award

We are excited to announce that the Gombe Plant a Tree initiative was recognized at the prestigious Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards (UMEAs), which were held on Friday, 13th December 2024, at the Kampala Serena Hotel under the theme “Promoting Sustainable Marketing.” This recognition was awarded in acknowledgment of our innovative efforts in promoting sustainability through grassroots initiatives that engage local communities and contribute to environmental conservation.

The UMEAs have long been known for celebrating exceptional marketing campaigns that drive social good and environmental change. To receive such an accolade reinforces the positive impact of the Gombe tree planting event, as well as our commitment to fostering a sustainable future for Uganda. The award highlights our innovative approach to integrating environmental responsibility into our marketing and community outreach efforts.

This award also exemplifies the importance of collaboration between businesses, local communities, and organizations to promote sustainable practices while also showcasing the role of marketing in spreading awareness and encouraging action for the planet.

The Future of Gombe: Scaling the Impact

While the October 26th event was a significant milestone, it is only the beginning of a larger vision for Gombe and the surrounding communities. Moving forward, we plan to:

1.      Expand Education Programs

We will continue to offer training sessions for smallholder farmers, focusing on advanced techniques in sustainable agriculture, tree care, and climate resilience.

2.      Create Green Clubs at Local Schools

We aim to establish environmental clubs in Gombe Secondary School to keep the momentum going, providing students with opportunities to engage in ongoing conservation activities and learn about sustainability in a hands-on way.

3.      Monitor and Maintain the Trees

Regular monitoring and maintenance of the trees planted during the event will be a priority to ensure their growth and longevity, contributing to the long-term health of the local ecosystem.

4.      Strengthen Community Partnerships

We will continue to engage local businesses, government officials, and international partners to ensure the sustainability of the project and explore further opportunities for collaboration and funding.

Join Us in the Journey

As we look to the future, we invite you to join us in our mission to empower communities and protect the environment. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, your involvement can make a difference in the lives of women, youth, and the planet.

Support the Gombe Tree Planting Initiative

If you’d like to support our continued efforts to foster sustainability in Gombe, we invite you to donate to the project. Your contributions will help us expand the program, plant more trees, and continue educating future generations about the importance of environmental stewardship.

Donate Now

Click here to donate and support Treescape

Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable future for Gombe and for the world.

Thank You

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this event possible—our volunteers, partners, community members, and the dedicated individuals who made the day unforgettable. This event was a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can create lasting change.

The Climate Justice Camp held on 1st-2nd July 2023 in Mbale City, Eastern Uganda, marked a pivotal moment in engaging young people in the climate change conversation. Organized by the Climate Justice Club Uganda in collaboration with Treescape Planet Organization, the camp aimed to empower young change-makers and increase awareness about climate change responsibilities.

Objectives Achieved:

1. Over 770 students from 5 secondary schools actively participated in the camp, fostering a sense of engagement and responsibility towards climate action.
2. Climate change education was extended to participants, highlighting their crucial role in mitigating its effects.
3. The camp empowered a generation of young activists, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to become effective change-makers in their communities.

 

Key Activities:

1. Comprehensive climate change education sessions were conducted, reaching over 770 students across 5 schools, emphasizing the importance of climate action.
2. A total of 300 trees were planted in the participating schools, symbolizing the commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.
3. Waste management education sessions were conducted, raising awareness among students about the importance of proper waste disposal and its impact on the environment.

 

Schools Attended:

1. University Link High School
2. Resilient High School
3. Bugisu Progressive Secondary School
4. Bugisu High School
5. Mbale Progressive Secondary School

 

Testimonials:

1. University Link High School

Precious, (Student Headgirl): “The Climate Justice Camp truly opened my eyes to the urgency of climate action. Witnessing the transformation of our school grounds with beautiful trees and a more sustainable environment, I now feel empowered to drive change in my community and advocate passionately for sustainable practices.”

Moses, (Headmaster): “As the headteacher of our school, I commend initiatives such as the Climate Justice Camp for actively engaging young people in the battle against climate change. Witnessing the next generation step up to safeguard their future is truly inspiring. Given the vulnerability of our region to climate change impacts, the trees planted during the camp will play a vital role in preserving and nurturing our environment.”

2. Resilient High School:

Wataka Alex (Deputy Head Teacher): “The camp served as a wake-up call for our students, igniting a sense of responsibility towards addressing climate change. We extend our gratitude to the organizers for empowering our youth through this initiative. As a school, we are committed to nurturing the trees planted, firmly believing in the mantra ‘plant a tree, plant a life’.”

Pauline, Headgirl (Student): “The Climate Justice Camp opened my eyes to the impacts of our actions on the environment. Now, I’m dedicated to advocating for sustainable choices and inspiring others to join me. It also instilled in me the belief that planting a tree is not just about adding greenery but nurturing life itself, and I am determined to carry that forward.”

2. Bugisu Progressive Secondary School:

Mr. Collin (School Director): “The Climate Justice Camp offered our students a transformative experience and opened their eyes to the realities of climate change. Seeing the practical lessons firsthand, particularly the significance of trees as windbreakers, has instilled a sense of urgency in us. Given our recent loss of a school block to strong winds, we’re fully committed to nurturing the newly planted trees as a testament to our dedication to cultivating a greener, more resilient environment.”

Mulondo Sharif Hamis (Student): “The visit from the camp organizers was truly a landmark occasion for our school, marking a new chapter in our environmental journey. It has sparked a fire within me to pursue climate activism. The profound lessons on environmental preservation have given me a sense of empowerment, and I am now driven to effect positive change in my community.”

2. Bugisu High School:

Gerald Eluju (Teacher): “As we transition into a new curriculum where climate change is now introduced, the Climate Justice Camp has been instrumental in bridging the gap between theory and practice for our students. Through hands-on activities like tree planting, they have been able to not only learn about climate change but also actively engage with the pressing issues of deforestation, landslides, and more. Witnessing their enthusiasm and commitment to environmental stewardship has been truly empowering.”

Salimo David (Student): “The camp was a pivotal moment for me. I’ve realized the urgency of tackling climate change, and I’m determined to promote sustainable practices in my school and community. Planting trees has been a tangible action we’ve taken, contributing to cleaner air. Let’s embrace the club and anticipate the positive impact it will bring.”

2. Mbale Progressive Secondary School:

Emmanuel (Teacher): “The Climate Justice Camp was a transformative experience for our students. Our school being in the landslides region, it’s a blessing for our students to have gained valuable insights into climate change and were inspired to become agents of change in their communities.

Asiraf Mustapha (Student): “The camp opened my eyes to the reality of climate change. I am now motivated to take action to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. With the many climate change effects happening, we appreciate the organizers for the efforts to see our climate getting back to normal and encourage everyone to plant more trees.

Conclusion:

The Climate Justice Camp not only educated participants but also inspired them to take concrete steps towards a sustainable future, demonstrating the power of youth engagement in addressing global challenges.

Growing Together is a transformative initiative by Treescape Planet Organization aimed at fostering environmental awareness and social inclusion. Through inclusive tree planting, the project empowers children with special needs while engaging the broader community of local leaders, and social organizations to maximize reach in environmental stewardship. The project’s goals are threefold: to provide inclusive environmental education, promote social integration, and instil a sense of environmental responsibility.

Partnering with organizations; Angel’s Center for Children with Special Needs and Clarke International University, the project addresses the pressing need for accessible education and social inclusion for children with special needs in the Wakiso district, Central Region of Uganda. By planting native and fruit trees and conducting interactive workshops, Growing Together not only enhances environmental conservation efforts but also breaks down social barriers, fostering a sense of belonging among participants.

Key Achievements:

• Engaged 50 children with special needs in the program, promoting social integration and peer interaction.
• Planted over 200 native and fruit trees, instilling a sense of environmental responsibility.
• Developed adaptive learning modules, blending art and science to make environmental education accessible to children with special needs.
• Actively addressed societal stigma through community sensitization and inclusive activities, setting an example for positive change.
• Recognized as the Best ESG Campaign in Uganda Marketing Excellence awards 2023.

 

Future Plans

Inspired by its success, the project partners plan to expand the environmental education program, conduct more inclusive events, and continue the tradition of tree planting. The long-term commitment to sustainability ensures that the project’s impact extends far beyond its initial phase, creating lasting change in the community.

Acknowledgements:

The success of Growing Together would not have been possible without the dedication and support of participants, partner organizations, volunteers, and sponsors. Their contributions have been instrumental in achieving the project’s goals and paving the way for future endeavours aimed at creating inclusive and environmentally responsible communities.

Treescape Planet embarked on the #GreeningNakaseke project in Nakaseke district, Uganda, with the aim of promoting afforestation, agroforestry, and re-afforestation among farmers and school-going children. Through a series of activities including awareness creation, tree planting, training of farmers, and information sharing, the project sought to empower communities while upholding the principles of sustainable development.

Key Achievements

• Successful planting of 1,200 trees, transforming the landscape and contributing significantly to environmental conservation.
• Empowerment of over 30 small-holder farmers through targeted training sessions, fostering knowledge exchange and networking.
• Establishment of an awareness hub serving as a central source for disseminating valuable information, and enhancing environmental awareness in the community.
• Distribution of 395 tree seedlings to farmers and 805 to schools, including species like mugavu (Albizia spp), Mangoes, musizi (maesopsis eminii), Avocado, and jackfruits in partnership with government agencies like NEMA and NFA.

 

Tree Planting Activities in Schools

Nakaseke International College, Nakaseke Technical Institute, and Nabbika UMEA P/S were the focal points for extensive tree-planting endeavours. Activities included awareness creation sessions, active student participation in tree planting, and integration of environmental education into the curriculum.

• Nakaseke Technical Institute: Engaged vocational students in tree planting activities and promoted the integration of sustainable farming practices into their education.
• Nakaseke International College: Encouraged student involvement in environmental conservation through informative talks, debates, and tree-planting initiatives.
• Nabbika UMEA Primary School: Empowered young environmentalists to take the lead in tree planting efforts, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility from a young age.

 

Recommendations

• Conduct more timely training for farmers in areas of afforestation and agroforestry.
• Secure fruit trees which are highly valued by farmers to further incentivize participation.

 

Acknowledgements

The success of the #GreeningNakaseke project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of partners, sponsors, and the local community. Their support and dedication have laid the foundation for a greener and more sustainable future in Nakaseke district.

Farmer Testimonials from the Greening Nakaseke Project

Caroline Nabukeera

“Before the #GreeningNakaseke project, I never realized the importance of planting trees on my farm. Now, after receiving training from Treescape Planet, I understand how trees can improve soil health and provide additional income through fruit sales. I am grateful for the knowledge and support I’ve received.”

 

Byansi Richard

“As a small-holder farmer, I used to struggle with soil erosion and low crop yields. Through the #GreeningNakaseke project, I learned about agroforestry techniques that have transformed my farm. By planting trees alongside my crops, I’ve not only improved soil fertility but also diversified my income sources. Thank you, Treescape Planet, for empowering farmers like me.”

Nakate Rose

“The Greening Nakaseke project has been a game-changer for me and my family. Learning about the benefits of tree planting and agroforestry has not only improved our farm’s productivity but has also enhanced our environmental consciousness. We now see ourselves as stewards of the land, thanks to the invaluable training and support provided by Treescape Planet.”

Other Photos

In July 2023, Treescape Planet Organization embarked on the transformative Kasumba Project at Kasumba Nursery and Primary School in Mubende, Uganda. This initiative aimed to instil environmental consciousness and stewardship among students and the community.

Objectives:

1. Educate over 710 pupils on climate change and the importance of trees.
2. Plant 150 trees within the school premises to foster environmental responsibility.
3. Utilize tree planting as an interdisciplinary educational tool.

 

Challenges:

• Inadequate preparation time and unfavourable weather conditions posed obstacles.
• Limited community participation initially threatened project impact.

 

Solutions:

• Meticulous planning and proactive weather monitoring ensured project success.
• Overcame challenges through resilience and resourcefulness.

 

Impact:

• Beyond tree planting, the project cultivated a deep connection with nature among participants.
• Engaging in activities like tree planting demonstrations and environmental talks inspired environmental stewardship.

 

Legacy:

• The Kasumba Project serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
• It demonstrates the transformative power of collaboration and education in creating a sustainable future.

 

Conclusion:

The Kasumba Project exemplifies the transformative potential of environmental education and community engagement. Through collaboration and empowerment, Treescape Planet Organization has nurtured a generation of environmental stewards, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable world.