Equity Bank, Bugisu leader launch tree project to tackle carbon emissions

Equity Bank Uganda, in partnership with the Umukuuka wa Bugisu Sir Jude Mike Mudoma, the cultural leader of the Bamasaba, and the Gro Foundation, has launched a major tree-planting initiative aimed at decarbonising dumping sites and promoting environmental conservation in the Bugisu subregion.

The project, covering eight acres around the main dumping site in Mbale City, seeks to plant trees that will act as natural carbon sinks, helping to keep the city green, safe, and resilient to climate change impacts.

The initiative also aims to prevent disasters similar to the Kitezi landfill tragedy in Kampala, which highlighted the dangers of unmanaged waste sites. Under the collaboration, Equity Bank will provide Shs60 million in funding, while Gro Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on reforestation, will offer technical expertise to ensure that native tree species are planted, nurtured, and monitored for long-term sustainability. By the end of 2026, the partners aim to plant 60,000 trees across the region.

The tree-planting exercise was officially launched by the Umukuuka during celebrations marking his two years as head of the Bugisu Kingdom. Speaking at the event, Sir Jude Mike Mudoma described the initiative as a symbol of unity between culture, business, and environmental stewardship, emphasizing that the project is not just about trees but about preserving the land and securing the future of the Bamasaba people.

Equity Bank’s Manager for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Virginia Ssemakula, noted that the bank’s commitment goes beyond traditional banking. “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, reflecting our vision of growing not only financial prosperity but also environmental resilience,” she said.

Lydia Apeduno, the Mbale City Council Composite Manager, highlighted the environmental benefits of planting trees around landfills, noting that dumping sites often emit gases such as carbon dioxide, and that trees would help reduce these emissions while acting as natural demarcations to prevent encroachment.

The program will also support the people of Bugisu in achieving agricultural and socio-economic transformation while helping to mitigate recurring mudslides in the region. Trees are expected to improve soil health, conserve water, and strengthen farm resilience against climate change, while providing farmers with food, fodder, and additional income sources.

Laban Musiguzi from Gro Foundation underscored the broader benefits of agroforestry, explaining that 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,” he said.

The launch reaffirmed Equity Bank’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. The initiative is part of the bank’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy, which integrates sustainability into its core operations. Equity Bank has set a national target to plant 35 million trees by 2026, with the Bugisu project serving as a model for urban and peri-urban reforestation efforts across the country.

By combining financial resources, technical expertise, and cultural leadership, the partners aim to create a lasting environmental legacy, enhance community resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods through the transformative power of trees.