The Size of Wales project, funded by the Welsh Government, has successfully planted 25 million trees in Uganda. Deborah Nabulobi, a local advocate, will visit Wales to discuss climate change impacts and community responses. The initiative addresses severe forest loss in Uganda while promoting sustainable practices and gender equality among local farmers. The project exemplifies international collaboration for climate action and social improvement.
A Welsh climate change charity, Size of Wales, has announced that its project in Uganda has reached a significant milestone by planting 25 million trees by 2025, backed by funding from the Welsh Government. Deborah Nabulobi, a local tree nursery manager and advocate for gender equality, will visit Wales this week to share firsthand accounts of climate change’s impact on Ugandan communities and the collective actions being taken to mitigate its effects.
Uganda faces critical forest loss, risking the destruction of its entire forest cover by 2040 if current trends persist. In response, METGE has established a network of community-operated tree nurseries, distributing 25 million tree saplings to local farmers and schools, particularly promoting sustainable farming practices among women. The trees planted serve multiple functions: they combat climate change, mitigate soil erosion leading to landslides, and provide communities with vital resources such as fruit, fodder, and timber.
Deborah Nabulobi’s trip will coincide with a series of climate awareness initiatives, including engagements with students at Litchard Primary School in Bridgend. To commemorate the achievement, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, will plant a tree at the school, promoting global citizenship and solidarity between Wales and Uganda. Litchard Primary is collaborating with Size of Wales to pursue recognition as a Deforestation Free School Champion.
Cabinet Secretary Jane Hutt emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate challenges, stating that partnerships such as those between Size of Wales and METGE significantly impact communities in Uganda, especially women and youth. Hutt expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the planting of a commemorative tree, acknowledging the strengthened ties between the two regions.
Deborah Nabulobi shared the transformative impact of METGE’s work, stating that the area has witnessed significant environmental recovery thanks to the 25 million trees, which have enhanced both ecological and economic conditions. She highlighted that women’s empowerment initiatives have allowed women to engage in beekeeping and vegetable farming, thereby reducing the financial load on families and lessening domestic violence by promoting shared responsibilities.
Barbara Davies-Quy, Deputy Director of Size of Wales, noted that tree planting is essential for mitigating climate change, fostering a connection between children in Wales and their environment. She affirmed that achieving the goal of planting 25 million trees in Uganda represents a remarkable success for Wales, and stressed the urgent need for action to combat rising global temperatures, with trees forming a crucial aspect of the solution.
The Size of Wales initiative exemplifies effective collaboration in environmental conservation and social equity, achieving the notable milestone of planting 25 million trees in Uganda by 2025. This project not only helps combat climate change but also fosters local livelihoods and promotes gender equality. The visit of Deborah Nabulobi to Wales underscores the interconnectedness of global climate efforts and local community empowerment. Continuing these initiatives holds promise for both environmental and social benefits, thus enhancing partnerships between Wales and Uganda.
Original Source: nation.cymru
