National Forestry Authority

Today, on International Youth Day, the proudly celebrates the strength, creativity, and passion of our youth. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow you are the changemakers of today

Plant a tree today, grow a legacy for tomorrow.
Every seed you plant is a promise to the earth, a gift of shade, clean air, and life for generations to come. Let’s green our communities, protect our environment, and nurture a future where forests thrive and people flourish.

On this World Chimpanzee Day, the National Forestry Authority celebrates Uganda’s rich chimpanzee heritage and calls on all Ugandans to protect vital forest habitats like Budongo, Kalinzu, and Bugoma because conserving forests means securing the future of our chimpanzees.

*Young Forest Champions Workshop Launched in Uganda*

The National Forestry Authority (NFA), in partnership with Youth Go Green and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has launched a three-day Young Forest Champions Workshop to empower youth in sustainable forest management and conservation.

Welcoming participants, NFA Executive Director Mr. Stuart Maniraguha emphasized forestry’s vital role in Uganda’s development and its links to sectors like agriculture, energy, and health. “Forestry is no longer a local issue but a global concern that requires collective action,” he said, encouraging youth involvement and recalling the planting of the first exotic tree in South Western Uganda. “When the old trees are gone, the young ones will make the forest more firm,” he added.

FAO’s Eva Ntara, facilitator of the initiative, highlighted the synergy between forestry and agriculture. “Forestry supports agriculture, the backbone of many African economies,” she noted, commending the youth for their energy and commitment to conservation.

Mr. Saul Ndigabwandiho, Forestry Officer at the Ministry of Water and Environment, stressed the importance of agroforestry and urged young people to adopt tree-planting and forest-friendly practices. “Let’s work together to increase forest cover and promote sustainable management,” he said.

Mr. Edwin Muhumuza, CEO of Youth Go Green, thanked the government for its support and called for collective responsibility. “You are the future leaders—take ownership of forest conservation for generations to come,” he told participants.

The workshop concluded with a united call to action for youth to lead forest preservation efforts in their communities. It marks a key step in building a generation of forest champions committed to a greener, more sustainable Uganda.

*NFA and Bank of Baroda Launch Tree Growing Initiative to Restore Jubiya Central Forest Reserve*

On 10th, 2025, National Forestry Authority (NFA) and Bank of Baroda launched a joint tree growing initiative to restore 20 hectares of the Jubiya Central Forest Reserve in Sango Bay, Masaka. The symbolic launch included the planting of one hectare of indigenous trees.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Michael Ating Ego, Governor Bank of Uganda, commended the initiative for aligning with national sustainability goals and praised NFA's forest management efforts. Local leaders, including the Deputy RDC and the LC V Chairperson of Masaka District, emphasized the project's benefits to both the environment and community livelihoods, urging residents to protect the forest.

Representing the NFA Executive Director, Communications Manager Aldon Walukamba reiterated the Authority’s goal to increase forest cover to 24% by 2040, acknowledging the bank's crucial support. Range Manager Nekesa Esther also thanked the bank for its commitment to environmental restoration beyond financial contributions.

Dr. Rebecca Kiconco, Board Chairperson of Bank of Baroda, highlighted the ecological importance of indigenous tree species and the bank's commitment to restoring Uganda’s natural heritage. The bank's Managing Director affirmed the broader climate and community impact of the initiative.

This public-private partnership is a significant step toward environmental sustainability, forest restoration, and improved community livelihoods in Uganda.

TREES MATTER

Trees are essential for life as they provide clean air, protect the environment, support biodiversity, sustain livelihoods, enhance well being and help communities adapt to climate change.

Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve in southwestern Uganda is a biodiverse rainforest known for affordable chimpanzee trekking, rich wildlife, and scenic nature walks. Explore Kalinzu for unforgettable experience.

Dear young people, the future of our planet depends on the choices we make today—and you have the power to lead the way. Planting a tree may seem like a small act, but it carries a lasting impact: cleaner air, healthier communities, restored ecosystems, and hope for future generations.

In the face of climate change, deforestation, and environmental degradation, your actions matter more than ever. Be the generation that nurtures the Earth, that restores what was lost, and that leaves a legacy of green for those yet to come.

Dear all, check the National Forestry Authority june 2025 monthly Canopy newsletter;