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Tree-Growing for Rwenzori's Restoration

The Conservation and Demand Agency (CODEA) is ramping up its tree-growing efforts in the Rwenzori Region through the Rwenzori Yethu project, focusing on environmental rehabilitation and stewardship to improve crop productivity. Operating in 25 sub-counties across Kasese and Ntoroko districts, the project has made significant progress in restoring ecosystems while fostering social inclusion and economic sustainability. As of September 2024, CODEA has supplied approximately 165,238 trees, marking a key milestone in its goal to grow 3.1 million trees over the next five years. This effort includes rehabilitating 3,000 hectares of agroforestry, establishing 2,000 hectares of mixed woodlots, and creating 1,500 kilometers of tree hedges to protect agricultural landscapes and ecosystems. The tree-growing initiative also serves as a socio-economic intervention, benefiting about 11,000 households. It promotes social inclusion and provides youth employment opportunities in the region. This integrated approach combines environmental conservation with community welfare, ensuring that local residents actively participate and benefit directly from the project. The project promotes a variety of indigenous tree species chosen for their ecological and economic value, including Maesopsis eminii, Albizia coriaria, Markhamia lutea, Spathodea campanulata, Grevillea robusta, Senna siamea, Cordia africana, Excelsa, and Khaya grandifolia. These species enhance biodiversity, provide essential resources such as timber, shade, and firewood, and support the health of the ecosystem. To support its tree-growing activities, CODEA has also implemented farmer training programs that guide participants through every stage of the process, from land preparation to planting. These hands-on trainings empower farmers to sustainably manage their land and contribute to climate change mitigation. In addition to boosting crop productivity through agroforestry, the Rwenzori Yethu project aligns with global climate change efforts. By restoring degraded landscapes, the project helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhances carbon sequestration, and increases resilience to climate-related risks. CODEA’s tree-growing efforts in the Rwenzori Yethu project showcase a forward-thinking approach that merges environmental stewardship with socio-economic development. By actively involving communities, the initiative ensures that the environmental, social, and economic benefits are shared widely. As the project progresses, it serves as a powerful example of how environmental conservation can generate lasting benefits for both people and the planet.