Absa Bank Uganda leads private sector charge in climate action through innovative partnership

KAMPALA, Uganda — Absa Bank Uganda has joined forces with Rotary Uganda and My Tree Initiative Organization to launch a groundbreaking schools greening programme, demonstrating the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

The “Sustainable Growing of 120,000 Trees in Primary Schools” programme aims to engage 90,000 students in planting and protecting 120,000 trees across 183 primary schools, addressing Uganda’s significant deforestation rates and climate change challenges.

“Addressing societal challenges like climate change requires a united front,” said Mumba Kalifungwa, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda. “As Absa, our strong focus is to promote positive change within the communities we serve through impactful initiatives like this.”

This partnership underscores Absa Bank Uganda’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community development, aligning with its business strategy to drive sustainable growth.

Rotary Uganda District Governor Anne Nkutu emphasized the importance of environmental conservation. “Protecting the environment is critical for our existence and achievement of all our other goals.”

My Tree Initiative Executive Director Enjer Ashiraf praised the partnership. “Together, we are integrating environmental education into school curriculums and nurturing future champions of our planet.”

The programme promotes community-led approaches to reversing deforestation and combating climate change.

The partnership builds on last year’s successful collaboration between Absa Bank and My Tree Initiative, which restored over 3,500 acres of forestland and increased student access to fruits and vegetables by 74%.