In many parts of Uganda, young people are often associated with short-term opportunities such as casual employment, sports, and small businesses. However, in Kikuube District, a growing number of youth are beginning to view commercial tree growing as a long-term investment capable of generating income, strengthening climate resilience, and contributing to sustainable community development.

Through the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development (IFPA-CD) Woodlots Project, young people are gaining greater awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of commercial forestry. Funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment together with consortium partners including NIRAS International Consulting, ECOTRUST, Havilah Company Limited, and Green Life International, the Project promotes sustainable woodlot establishment while encouraging inclusive participation across communities.

One young leader embracing this opportunity is Kato Nelson Mandela, the newly elected Youth Councillor for Kiziranfumbi Sub-county in Kikuube District. As he prepares to assume office, Kato has identified environmental conservation and commercial tree growing as important components of his vision for community development.

“Even though I am young, my fellow youth voted for me as a Councillor because they believe in my ability and capacity to serve them and positively contribute to the development of my community.”

Kato’s interest in tree growing was strengthened through community sensitisation activities and Farmers’ Voice Radio programmes implemented under the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project. Through these engagements, he gained a deeper understanding of the role that commercial forestry can play in creating sustainable livelihoods while supporting environmental conservation.

Located within Uganda’s emerging oil-producing region, Kikuube District faces both economic opportunities and environmental challenges. Kato believes tree growing can help communities prepare for the future while contributing to environmental protection.

“Our district has oil, and when extraction begins, there are fears that emissions could affect air quality. This is why it is important to plant trees to secure our future. Youth participation in this process is crucial.”

Despite growing interest, youth participation in commercial forestry remains limited by factors such as restricted access to land, limited capital, and inadequate awareness about the long-term benefits of tree growing. Through awareness creation, technical guidance, and community engagement activities, the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project is helping address some of these barriers and encouraging greater youth involvement.

Inspired by the Project, Kato has already begun establishing trees on his own land and views commercial forestry as a valuable long-term investment.

“I am lucky to have my own land where I have been growing some trees. With the Project, I believe I will be able to plant even more. In the long run, these trees will be a source of income and help me live sustainably in the future.”

Community leaders and district officials believe that engaging young people is essential for ensuring the sustainability of investments in commercial forestry. They emphasise that youth involvement helps secure long-term stewardship of woodlots while strengthening future livelihood opportunities for rural households.

As Kato prepares to assume public office, he remains committed to promoting youth participation in commercial tree growing and environmental conservation.

“When I assume office, I will advocate for more youth to have access to land for tree planting. We are the ones who will inherit this environment, so we must be the ones to protect it.”

Kato’s story demonstrates how the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project is helping inspire a new generation of young people to view commercial tree growing not only as an environmental activity, but also as a pathway to future income, climate resilience, and sustainable community development.