In a bold and timely environmental push, Equity Bank Uganda has committed to plant 60,000 trees across the Bugisu sub-region by the end of 2026, injecting Shs 60 million towards the initiative.
The drive is being undertaken in partnership with the cultural authority of the Bamasaba (through the office of the (Umukuka wa Bugisu) and the reforestation NGO, Gro Foundation.
The campaign targets the greening of key hotspots, especially around major dumping and landfill sites in and near Mbale City. The planted trees will serve as natural carbonsinks, reduce harmful gas emissions, act as buffers preventing landfill encroachment, and increase the ecological resilience of surrounding farmland and communities.
The initiative was formally launched during celebrations marking the second anniversary of the current Umukuka’s reign.
Virginia Ssemakula, Equity Bank’s Manager for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, emphasised that the bank’s commitment goes beyond traditional financial services.
“At Equity, we believe it is our responsibility to go beyond banking. That’s why we are heavily invested in energy and environmental initiatives. We are investing in healthier communities and a more sustainable future.”
Lydia Apeduno, the Mbale City Council Composite Manager, underscored the environmental benefits, especially around emission control and preventing illegal usage of sensitive land near dumpsites.
“Dumping sites often emit gases such as carbon dioxide. These trees will help in carbon reduction and act as demarcations to prevent encroachment.”
From the technical side, Gro Foundation’s Laban Musinguzi drew attention to the broader agronomic and ecological advantages of the project:
“Integrating trees into farming systems helps control soil erosion, manage pests and diseases, and create a more diverse and productive ecosystem. This is not just about planting trees but about planting hope — securing the environment and protecting the climate for generations to come.”
The project aligns with the bank’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy. On a national level, the bank is also aiming to plant 35 million trees by 2026 across its operations.
Beyond climate goals, the initiative is expected to support agricultural productivity, soil and water conservation, and help reduce the risks of landslides and other climate-related disasters in the region