Summary:
- Archbishop Kaziimba also urged Ugandans to embrace tree planting to combat deforestation, linking it to the increasing heatwaves.
NAMIREMBE: The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has urged collective action to address Uganda’s environmental crisis, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to climate advocacy and sustainability.
Speaking on Friday at the launch of Environment Focus Month in Namirembe, Archbishop Kaziimba emphasized the Church’s role in promoting ecological balance. The Provincial Assembly, held at Uganda Christian University in August 2024, designated March as Environment Month to raise awareness of conservation efforts.
He commended the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for its wetland reclamation campaign but expressed concerns about its selective enforcement.
“The intention was good, but implementation was selective. Poor people were evicted, yet others remain, along with factories. Reclaim the wetlands without fear or favor and establish a clear development plan to guide land use,” he urged.
Call for Better Waste Management
Commenting on the Kiteezi landfill tragedy, the Archbishop stressed the need for a comprehensive waste management plan.
“The loss of lives at Kiteezi was due to poor waste management. Kampala and other cities lack a clear waste disposal system, with garbage littering streets and roadsides. We must establish proper waste collection and dumping sites to preserve our country’s beauty.”
He pledged the Church’s commitment to climate advocacy and promoting clean, renewable energy in its institutions and communities.
Archbishop Kaziimba also urged Ugandans to embrace tree planting to combat deforestation, linking it to the increasing heatwaves.
“Deforestation, especially for timber, is a major cause of extreme heat. I call on all Bishops to mandate that every confirmant plants a tree upon confirmation and every clergy ensures a tree is planted for each baptized child. We must jealously protect our environment.”
He further emphasized collaboration with other faith-based and cultural organizations to promote environmental conservation.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, represented by Hon. Biyika Lawrence Songa, lauded the Church’s commitment to environmental conservation, recognizing its influence in driving behavioral change.
“The Church’s initiatives align with Uganda’s sustainable development agenda. We commit to supporting and collaborating for a greener future.”
Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary, revealed that the Church’s 2026-2030 Strategic Plan prioritizes environmental conservation and disaster risk reduction.
“We aim to reduce our carbon footprint and support communities in building environmental resilience. Strong partnerships are crucial for meaningful impact.”
Rev. Andrew Agaba, Director of Household and Community Transformation, highlighted the Church’s participation in global climate advocacy, including five consecutive Conference of Parties (COP) summits.
Stuart Maniraguha, Executive Director of the National Forestry Authority (NFA), praised the Church’s conservation efforts, emphasizing that environmental protection is essential for survival. He pledged NFA’s support for tree-planting initiatives.
Patricia Roy Akullo, a climate finance expert at the Ministry of Finance, outlined Uganda’s climate funding needs, estimating a requirement of $28.1 billion by 2030 ($4.1 billion annually).
She highlighted Uganda’s access to global climate finance through mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Adaptation Fund (AF), and Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Additionally, Margaret Athieno Mwebesa, Commissioner for Climate Change at the Ministry of Water and Environment, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Church’s climate advocacy, recognizing its vital role in mobilizing communities.
