Encouraging a new generation of environmental stewards, the She Leads initiative today launched its “Girls Peer Mentors Greening Warriors Clubs” campaign, urging schools across the region to embrace tree planting as a vital weapon against climate change, a means to preserve the environment, and a path towards restoring lost green cover.
The impactful call to action was made by Gloria Namakula, She Leads’ Lead Climate Change Officer, during the official inauguration of the greening campaign at Innula Primary School. The ambitious initiative aims to see a remarkable 1,000 trees planted at home by students and an additional 500 trees established within school grounds.
“We are thrilled to initiate the Green Warriors Greening Clubs in schools, empowering these young minds as pioneer agents of climate change advocacy,” Namakula declared. “The climate change crisis is undeniably real, and it is crucial that both at school and at home, we passionately preach and practice the gospel of tree planting.”
Beyond the environmental imperative, Namakula also highlighted the crucial link between climate action and the protection of girls. She called for creating safe spaces and ensuring girls’ voices are heard, emphasizing the need for equal opportunities and protection from potential predators who may target them as they gather firewood.
Emma Bala, a She Leads advocate from Plan International, underscored the critical importance of this greening campaign, particularly in light of the growing scarcity of firewood, the detrimental impact of charcoal production, the alarming rise in natural disasters, and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
“We are taking critical and right steps towards the restoration of forest cover, the conservation of biodiversity, and reafforestation,” Bala urged. “It is imperative that we embrace, popularize, and practically engage in these efforts.”
Edrin Kitimbo, the Community Development Officer for Bugaya Sub-County, commended She Leads for championing this vital initiative, recognizing the invaluable role of school children in ensuring the long-term success of tree planting.
“Schools historically have had Young Farmers’ Clubs, which already engage students in learning about erosion, climate change, and afforestation,” Kitimbo noted. “Therefore, they are the perfect target for practical lessons, enabling them to transfer these vital skills and knowledge back to their homes.”
Kitimbo further encouraged schools to consider establishing woodlots for sustainable firewood use in school meal preparation, planting trees as windbreakers, and cultivating orchards to enhance nutritional diversity.
Underscoring the children’s enthusiasm and commitment, Rachel Mukyala, the head prefect and a champion of the Green Warriors Club, assured that the students are eager to take ownership of this critical mission. “Take it from us, the Green Warriors!” she exclaimed. “We possess the time, energy, and eagerness to plant trees that will provide us with nutrition, income, and peace. Most importantly, we will be able to tangibly demonstrate and practice what we learn in our climate and environmental lessons.”
The launch event itself saw a vibrant display of commitment, with 123 trees planted within the school compound. In addition, each of the 123 participating “Warriors” received five trees to plant at home, encompassing a diverse range of species including nutritious fruit trees, protective cover trees, and essential soil conservation trees. This initiative promises to cultivate not only greener landscapes but also a generation deeply connected to the health of their planet.
