Students Lead Climate Restoration Effort In Eastern Uganda

 November 12, 2025   |    187 views

By Our Reporter I Ngariam Focus

A youth-led climate restoration initiative has been launched in Eastern Uganda, marking a new chapter in environmental education and community participation.

Under the theme “Unlock young minds and center youth voices in restoration — from classrooms to communities,” four Green Sparks Movement (GSM) Clubs have been established across schools in Amuria and Katakwi Districts.

The initiative is a joint effort by Holy Homes Africa (HHA), the Rotary Club of Katakwi, and the Rotaract Club of Soroti University, aimed at empowering young people to lead community-based environmental actions through tree planting, innovation, and stewardship.

Speaking during the launch, Rotarian Robert Otim, Founder and Chairman of Holy Homes Africa, said the program seeks to nurture a generation of climate-conscious leaders.

“Each tree planted is not just for shade or fruit—it is a living classroom for resilience, innovation, and hope,” Otim said.

The launch ceremony attracted several local leaders and stakeholders, including Rotarian David Okiror, President of the Rotary Club of Katakwi; Olego Abdulai Esayu, Sub-county Chief of Amolo; and Oonyu Gilbert, Community Development Officer, who commended the partners for promoting environmental awareness among young people.

Over 2,700 tree seedlings were distributed to four schools — Katakwi High School, Amolo Primary School, Wera Seed Secondary School, and Amukurat Primary School in Amuria District. The seedlings included indigenous and high-value species such as jackfruit, avocado, coffee, soursop, palm oil, and African elemi.

At Amukurat Primary School, learners expressed excitement as they planted coffee trees for the first time.

 “This is a hands-on lesson in restoration and innovation,” said Opus Florence, Head Teacher of Amukurat Primary School.

The Green Sparks Movement Clubs will continue to receive mentorship through the Environment and Climate Action Club (ECAC) framework, which provides for orchard management, environmental education, and carbon credit tracking.

Each participating school will also benefit from capacity building in climate leadership, access to micro-grants for eco-business projects, and recognition on national and Rotary platforms.

According to Rotarian David Okiror, the collaboration between Holy Homes Africa, Rotary, and Rotaract is a model for how schools can drive community transformation through practical environmental action.

 “Our collective action today will ripple through generations,” Okiror said. “This partnership is not just about planting trees—it’s about growing futures.”

The Green Sparks Movement, founded by Holy Homes Africa, is a flagship youth-powered environmental initiative promoting restoration and climate action through school-based eco-clubs, indigenous tree planting, and innovation challenges.