Education leaders, religious representatives and private sector actors have warned that Uganda is already experiencing escalating effects of climate change, including flooding, deforestation and widespread environmental degradation.
The warning came during a tree planting campaign at Atlas High School, Gayaza, where stakeholders called for urgent and coordinated action to restore tree cover, with schools identified as key frontline institutions in environmental conservation and climate education.
Atlas High School Headteacher Ronald Wasswa said collective responsibility is critical in addressing environmental destruction, urging students to take a leading role in restoring tree cover within schools and their communities.
“We ought to join our hands together to ensure that we protect the planet by taking care of trees,” Wasswa said. “This is a very important cause. The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, but the next best time is now.”
Religious and civic leaders reinforced the warning, saying continued environmental destruction is already contributing to worsening climate-related disasters, particularly urban flooding.
Speaking on behalf of the Rotary Club of Namugongo, Dr. John Kameri said environmental protection must be treated as a responsibility for all citizens, warning that failure to act will deepen the climate crisis.
“We are going to plant hope, the beginning of life,” Kameri said. “Environmental protection is not a favour. Every person depends on the environment. If there are no trees, there will be no life.”
He cautioned that inaction could increase the frequency and severity of disasters such as floods and land degradation, which are already affecting urban and rural communities.
Corporate partners also echoed the warning, emphasizing the need for stronger private sector involvement in environmental restoration.
Agnes Nakajjumba, Branch Service Advisor at Centenary Bank Gayaza Branch, said environmental conservation is essential for national sustainability and long-term development.
“If Uganda is to remain attractive and sustainable, young people must take the lead in environmental protection,” Nakajjumba said.
Christine Nassuuna, Chief Planter at AAR Insurance, said limited land availability in urban areas has slowed down reforestation efforts, warning that environmental protection is being undermined by low public prioritization of tree planting.
“In Kampala, it has been difficult to find land because many residents do not prioritize tree planting,” Nassuuna said. “We appreciate schools like Atlas High School for providing space for this activity.”
She added that trees remain critical for food security, public health and climate regulation, urging sustained participation in reforestation initiatives.
The campaign organizers said schools remain strategic platforms for environmental awareness and long-term behavioural change, with learners expected to become ambassadors of climate action in their communities.
The initiative comes amid growing concern over deforestation, wetland degradation and flooding across Uganda, with experts warning that climate change and human activity are accelerating environmental decline.
