The Size of Wales project has successfully planted 25 million trees in Uganda, thanks to Welsh Government funding. Deborah Nabulobi will visit Wales to discuss climate impacts in Uganda and promote gender equality. The project fights deforestation and empowers local communities, particularly women, while also raising awareness in Welsh schools about climate change and global responsibility.
A Welsh climate charity, Size of Wales, has successfully achieved its goal of planting 25 million trees in Uganda by 2025, thanks to funding from the Welsh Government. To commemorate this milestone, Deborah Nabulobi, a local tree nursery manager, will visit Wales to share stories about the effects of climate change in Uganda and how the community is adapting. Gender equality and women’s leadership are integral to all program activities.
Uganda currently faces high rates of forest loss, with projections suggesting it could completely lose its forest cover by 2040. In response, the METGE initiative has utilized a network of community-run tree nurseries to distribute 25 million saplings to farmers and schools in the Mbale region. This effort not only addresses climate change but also aids local residents, especially women, in achieving sustainable livelihoods.
The forest initiative protects Mount Elgon communities from soil erosion, which can lead to catastrophic landslides. Tree planting helps regulate the climate, provides shelter, fruits, nuts, animal fodder, and sustainable wood, thereby supporting local agriculture and generating income.
Deborah Nabulobi’s visit coincides with various climate awareness activities, including an event at Litchard Primary School in Bridgend, where local leaders will participate in tree planting in solidarity with Uganda. The school is partnering with Size of Wales to act as a Deforestation Free School Champion, promoting global responsibility.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in combatting climate emergencies, stating the tree distribution significantly impacts lives in Uganda. Hutt is eager to celebrate the partnership between Wales and Uganda during the school event.
Deborah Nabulobi emphasized METGE’s impact, describing how the environment has improved since the tree distribution, transforming dry areas into greener landscapes. She noted the empowerment of women in bee-keeping and vegetable farming, illustrating how these initiatives reduce domestic violence by involving both men and women in family support.
Barbara Davies-Quy, Deputy Director of Size of Wales, reiterated that tree planting is crucial in addressing climate change while fostering a connection between children in Wales and their environment. The achievement of 25 million trees in Uganda is a collaborative effort that demonstrates the potential impact of passionate commitment from both nations, especially as global temperatures rise and urgent action is needed to tackle climate crises.
The Size of Wales initiative has reached a commendable milestone by planting 25 million trees in Uganda, demonstrating the effectiveness of international collaboration in environmental efforts. This program not only combats climate change but also empowers women and supports sustainable livelihoods in Uganda. Deborah Nabulobi’s visit to Wales highlights the personal stories behind these efforts, emphasizing the transformative power of tree planting for communities. Such initiatives foster significant social change while promoting global responsibility among youth in Wales.
Original Source: nation.cymru
