In a bid to combat deforestation and promote sustainable development, the government of Denmark has pledged to partner with Uganda on a massive reforestation campaign in an initiative that aims to plant at least 29 hectares of trees in the country.
Uganda’s forest cover has significantly declined since 1990, from 24% to around 9% by 2015. However, efforts are underway to reverse this trend, with the National Forest Authority (NFA) expecting forest cover to rise to 15% of Uganda’s total land area by 2025.
According to H.E Signe Winding Albjerg, the Ambassador of Denmark in Uganda, the “Partnering for Forests in Uganda” program is a strategic move to prevent deforestation and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in Uganda.
“Partnering for Forests in Uganda is a very special program because it’s not just a donor-funded activity but also a commitment by the Government of Uganda to deliver a forest-related framework that can provide sustainable forest for the future,” Albjerg said.
“This partnership cements the important role the European Union is playing in Uganda’s development and in uniting the European Countries in Uganda,” she added.
Albjerg also observed that Uganda is gifted with diverse and beautiful vegetation and animal species found nowhere else on the planet, a conclusion she reached after visiting many of the country’s forests, national parks, and wetlands and seeing all various landfalls around the country, which augment the beauty of the Pearl of Africa.
She explained that this partnership not only demonstrates Denmark’s commitment to Uganda’s development but also highlights the European Union’s role in promoting sustainable development in the country.
Why Reforestation Matters
Uganda is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting unique vegetation and animal species found nowhere else on the planet. However, the country is also at the forefront of deforestation, which poses a significant threat to its ecosystem.
“We are in for the next 4 years, I am confident that the Partnering for Forests in Uganda program will contribute to the promoting of sustainable development in Uganda, investment in climate-smart agriculture such as agroforestry, nature-based enterprises, value chains, reforestation, “Albjerg noted.
“Our contribution will particularly enhance the programs impact on increased mobilization, deployment and effective utilization of innovative forest financing however, enhanced coordination and collaboration will be key,” she went ahead to explain.
She concluded by emphasizing that reforestation efforts are crucial in promoting sustainable development, supporting climate-smart agriculture, and enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. The “Partnering for Forests in Uganda” program will focus on:
Agroforestry
Integrating trees into agricultural landscapes to promote sustainable farming practices.
Nature-based Enterprises
Supporting businesses that rely on natural resources, such as eco-tourism and sustainable forestry.
Reforestation
Planting trees in areas where forest cover has been depleted.
Innovative Forest Financing
Exploring new funding mechanisms to support reforestation efforts.
Collective Effort
The success of Uganda’s reforestation efforts relies on the collective efforts of government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and local communities. By working together, Uganda can restore its forest cover, promote sustainable development, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
As Albjerg emphasized, “enhanced coordination and collaboration will be key” in achieving the goals of the “Partnering for Forests in Uganda” program.
With Denmark’s support, Uganda is poised to make significant strides in its reforestation efforts, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for generations to come.