KAMPALA, Uganda – UAP Old Mutual, in partnership with My Tree Initiative Organization, has unveiled an ambitious Schools Greening Program aimed at growing 10,000 trees in 10 schools across Uganda, engaging over 5,000 students in conservation activities. This initiative tackles Uganda’s pressing climate change challenges and integrates environmental education into school communities.
The program was officially launched at Kisaasi Muslim Secondary School, gathering influential leaders from government, private sector, and development partners. Patrick Kimathi, Old Mutual Life Assurance Managing Director, emphasized the importance of environmental conservation.
“We believe addressing climate risk is both a responsibility and necessity for businesses,” Kimathi stated. “Through this program, we contribute to preserving Uganda’s natural resources, supporting a sustainable future for our communities and economy. Nature enables our economy, and conserving it is integral to our corporate strategy.”
As a financial institution, UAP Old Mutual incorporates sustainable practices protecting Uganda’s natural resources and ensuring long-term economic growth. This commitment extends beyond the Schools Greening Program.
Through the program, UAP Old Mutual and My Tree Initiative are planting indigenous, medicinal, and fruit trees to restore degraded land and promote ecosystem sustainability. Enjer Ashiraf, My Tree Initiative Organization Executive Director, expressed gratitude for UAP Old Mutual’s partnership.
“We’re thankful for UAP Old Mutual Uganda’s generous support,” Ashiraf said. “This program integrates environmental education into the school curriculum, engages students in tree planting, improves diets, and empowers future generations to champion environmental conservation.”
UAP Old Mutual’s dedication to sustainability is longstanding. Over three years, the company has contributed to planting 20,000 trees in Mabira Forest and the Albertine region and donated nearly 40,000 seedlings. This initiative aligns with addressing Africa’s environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
Uganda faces significant environmental degradation, with alarming deforestation and soil erosion rates threatening the economy, food security, and poverty reduction. The World Bank Group’s 2021 Uganda Economic Update reported staggering statistics:
- 41% of Uganda’s land degraded
- 2.6% forest cover lost annually
- $9 million lost ecosystem services annually
- Projected economic losses between $2.3-$4.2 billion by 2025
The UAP Schools Greening Program inspires young Ugandans to drive environmental sustainability, showcasing collective effort can effect positive change. By empowering future generations, UAP Old Mutual and My Tree Initiative Organization hope to mitigate Uganda’s environmental challenges and ensure a sustainable future.
This program demonstrates UAP Old Mutual’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship. By partnering with My Tree Initiative Organization, UAP Old Mutual is making a tangible impact on Uganda’s environmental landscape.
As the Schools Greening Program grows, UAP Old Mutual and My Tree Initiative Organization will continue to promote environmental education, conservation, and sustainability. Together, they are cultivating a greener, more resilient future for Uganda.
