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.