In Kasese district, Uganda, a women-led initiative combats flooding through reforestation. Janet Nyakairu Abwoli organizes workshops for women to plant native trees such as Dracaena and Ficus. These trees help stabilize soil and provide essential resources. Despite the successes, financial and care-related challenges remain, requiring sustained support for long-term ecological restoration.
In Uganda’s Kasese district, a women-led reforestation initiative addresses flooding and erosion caused by erratic rainfall patterns. The loss of tree cover due to firewood collection exacerbates environmental issues, damaging farmers’ homes and fields. Janet Nyakairu Abwoli leads workshops teaching women to plant and care for native tree species, such as Dracaena and Ficus, which help stabilize soil, retain moisture, and provide fodder and medicinal resources.
Janet Nyakairu Abwoli aims to rejuvenate her community impacted by climate change. The erratic weather patterns in the region have led to increased flooding and crop loss, affecting farmers accustomed to stable weather for the past 20 years. Abwoli’s initiative focuses on planting trees to restore the damaged ecosystem and provide hope for the community’s future.
Evelyn Mugume, the environment officer for Kasese municipality, notes changing rainfall patterns, emphasizing the urgency of planting indigenous trees for both ecological and socio-economic benefits. Communities are encouraged to understand the purpose of trees beyond planting, fostering a deeper connection to the environment and its resources. Municipal nurseries support these efforts by providing free indigenous seedlings.
Abwoli’s initiative has successfully encouraged local women to plant Ficus trees, which offer shade for crops, enhance soil stability and serve as fodder for livestock. Dracaena species, recognized for their drought resistance, are utilized for marking land boundaries and medicinal practices. Despite their ecological importance, many locals still cut down these trees for firewood.
The initiative also serves as a cultural revival, as Abwoli educates women on the ancestral practices of tree planting and protection. Her efforts have garnered community attention, with local leaders seeking her expertise. This rejuvenation of tree planting practices not only addresses environmental issues but also strengthens cultural ties.
Women who participated in tree planting are experiencing improved agricultural outcomes, such as increased soil moisture for crops. However, challenges remain with newly planted seedlings failing due to inadequate care and resources. Financial barriers prevent many families from investing in seedlings, as they prioritize basic needs over long-term ecological benefits.
Efforts to increase tree planting success rely on proper care and access to water, but many women face heavy domestic responsibilities. Abwoli’s initiative seeks to highlight the importance of indigenous plants in combating erosion and restoring landscapes. Support from local organizations is necessary to expand resources for training and seedling maintenance to secure a sustainable future for the community.
The reforestation initiative led by Janet Nyakairu Abwoli in Uganda not only tackles environmental degradation but also promotes community empowerment, particularly among women. The efforts focus on planting native species that address soil erosion and moisture retention while fostering cultural heritage. Awareness of the ecological importance of trees is crucial, yet ongoing challenges regarding resources and maintenance require community and government support to ensure sustainability and success for future generations.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
