The Bundibugyo tree planting campaign has ushered in a wave of renewed hope and resilience in a region once ravaged by deadly floods. Six years after natural disasters devastated communities across Bundibugyo, the Obudhingiya Bwa Bwamba (OBB) cultural institution has taken the lead in restoring the environment. This large-scale initiative, launched ahead of the kingdom’s 11th coronation anniversary on May 30, emphasizes sustainability and long-term disaster prevention.
With the theme “Planting trees today saves lives tomorrow,” the campaign urges residents to act against environmental degradation and climate threats. During the launch event held at Butoogho Primary School, the Omudhingiya of Bwamba, Lt Col Martin Ayongi Kamya, called on the community to see tree planting as a shield against future disasters. As a result, more than 75,000 seedlings of bamboo, mango, and eucalyptus were distributed to households throughout the district.
Moreover, the campaign targets plastic pollution—a growing issue that continues to clog rivers and damage fertile land. “Plastics suffocate our soil and water. Let us replace waste with roots,” the king stated, drawing enthusiastic applause from both elders and school children.
The 2019 floods, which claimed 10 lives and displaced hundreds, remain a painful memory for many. For example, Jemima Muhindo, who lost nine family members, shared her emotional journey. “I rented a tiny room, struggled with rent, and worked on other people’s farms just to feed my children,” she recalled. Despite the loss, stories of resilience are emerging.
Consequently, survivors like Elizabeth Biira have taken bold steps toward recovery. Once afraid of her waterlogged land, she now proudly tends to rows of mango trees. “These roots hold the soil—and my heart—steady,” she said. Similarly, Andrew Inagahara, who lost three rental houses during the floods, now owns new flood-resistant buildings surrounded by eucalyptus trees.
Local leaders have also expressed strong support for the campaign. Harugale Sub-county Chairperson Asuman Alpha, whose area was one of the hardest hit by landslides, praised NGOs such as EcoAction and OBB for spearheading the green transformation. He emphasized that community involvement remains essential to long-term recovery.
In addition, the kingdom’s prime minister, Charles Bukantwa, connected the initiative to Uganda’s broader environmental goals. “Where landslides once raged, we shall soon have a thriving forest,” he said. He also noted that the project supports Uganda’s National Climate Action Plan, which seeks to increase forest cover to 24 percent by 2030.
District Forest Officer Lawrence Faita elaborated on the strategic selection of tree species. “Bamboo binds soil in swampy lowlands, while eucalyptus absorbs excess water in upland areas,” he explained. According to him, these trees offer a natural defense system against erosion and flooding.
Ultimately, the Bundibugyo tree planting campaign does more than plant trees. It fosters unity, restores degraded land, and builds resilience. Through every seedling, the community reclaims its environment and reimagines a safer future. As Bundibugyo transforms tragedy into growth, its forests will stand as living symbols of healing, hope, and determination.
