Kitgum | In a significant step toward environmental conservation, the Muslim fraternity in Kitgum, led by Imam Ibrahim Oshien of Pandwong Mosque, has launched a major tree planting campaign worth shs1.5 million.
The initiative, which took place earlier today, is part of a growing movement within faith communities to promote climate action through grassroots engagement.
The campaign was made possible with support from the Wide Aid Paciferous Uganda (WAPU), a non-profit organization based in Kitgum, Uganda, focused on empowering disadvantaged communities. WAPU employs a multi-sectoral approach, utilizing affordable alternatives to address various community needs.
Speaking at the event, Imam Oshien emphasized the importance of protecting the environment as a religious and moral responsibility.
“Planting a tree is not only a gift to the earth, but a duty to the next generation. As Muslims, we are taught to care for Allah’s creation, and today we have acted on that call,” he said.
The project involved the planting of over 500 tree seedlings in and around Pandwong and neighboring communities. The trees will serve multiple purposes providing shade, improving air quality, preventing soil erosion, and contributing to the fight against climate change.
Oyella Joyce, administrator WAPU applauded the Kitgum Muslim leadership for spearheading this climate-conscious action. “This is a clear example that faith and climate action can go hand-in-hand. We are proud to partner with communities that see environmental protection as a sacred obligation.”
Local leaders and residents welcomed the initiative, noting that tree cover in the area has diminished over the years due to human activity. Community members pledged to nurture the planted trees and extend the campaign to schools, health centers, and places of worship.
Local community members welcomed the effort enthusiastically.
Alice Aciro, a local vendor from Pandwong trading center, said the trees would make a big difference: “The heat has become unbearable in recent years. These trees will bring back the cool shade we miss and even bear fruits for our children.”
Jackson Opira, a bodaboda rider in Kitgum Municipality and recent graduate, noted that young people must take such initiatives seriously. “Climate change is not a future problem, it is here with us. I’m happy to be part of this project. We want to create a greener Kitgum.”
Fatuma Nakirya, a mother of five and member of the mosque, called on women to get involved in environmental work: “Women manage homes and gardens. If we are part of tree planting, we can also teach our children to love nature. This is how we raise a responsible generation.”
Local leaders, too, were present. The LC1 chairperson in Pandwong, Okot Alex, pledged his office’s support to protect the trees: “This is not a one-day event. We shall work with residents to ensure the trees are nurtured and not destroyed. We are grateful to our Muslim brothers and sisters for leading by example.”
The tree planting initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader environmental policy and complements national and global climate change efforts. It also strengthens inter-community relations by promoting inclusive, peaceful, and proactive approaches to climate resilience.
The Kitgum Muslim community has committed to expanding the campaign in future phases to reach more villages, with hopes of collaborating further with schools, churches, youth groups, and local authorities.
The tree planting drive aligns with Uganda’s broader climate change goals under the National Development Plan III and Vision 2040, which calls for increased citizen participation in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
With growing global concern over climate change, the involvement of religious institutions in grassroots climate solutions is seen as a powerful force for long-term environmental transformation.
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