On 10th June 2026, Students, local leaders, conservation practitioners, and development partners gathered at Arinyapi Seed Secondary School in Adjumani District to commemorate World Environment Day through a large-scale tree planting initiative aimed at promoting environmental restoration and climate resilience.

During the activity, a total of 5,000 high-quality clonal eucalyptus seedlings were planted across approximately five acres of school land. To support healthy growth and long-term sustainability, the seedlings were established using recommended spacing and woodlot management practices.

The activity was implemented under the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development (IFPA-CD) Woodlots Project, an initiative of the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment, funded by the World Bank and implemented by a consortium comprising NIRAS International Consulting, ECOTRUST, Havilah Company Limited, and Green Life International.

The World Environment Day activity built on broader efforts under the Project to promote commercial forestry, environmental restoration, and climate-smart land management across refugee-hosting districts and surrounding communities.

Adjumani District recorded notable progress under the Project. According to project records, the district exceeded its institutional woodlot establishment target, demonstrating strong community participation and growing interest in commercial tree growing and environmental conservation.

The selection of Arinyapi Seed Secondary School reflected the importance of engaging young people and educational institutions in environmental stewardship. The area experiences both prolonged dry periods and seasonal flooding, making restoration of vegetation cover an important component of local climate adaptation efforts.

Speaking during the event, Adjumani District Natural Resources Officer Charles Gayoyo highlighted the importance of protecting water catchments and strengthening community resilience to climate change.

“Our goal is to protect the Tete River catchment and River Nile. If we plant more trees, we will protect our water resources and strengthen our environment for future generations.”

School administrators welcomed the initiative and noted that the woodlot would contribute to environmental improvement while providing learning opportunities for students.

Deputy Head Teacher Dricih Festo Lahn expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the initiative would help improve the school environment while creating long-term benefits for future generations of learners.

To improve tree survival, the Project introduced aqua soil technology, which helps retain moisture around tree roots during prolonged dry periods. The technology was promoted as a practical climate-smart solution for improving seedling survival in drought-prone areas.

The event also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between local government, schools, communities, and Project partners in advancing environmental conservation and climate resilience.

Local leaders encouraged students and community members to protect the trees and recognise their long-term environmental and economic value.

Adjumani District Vice Chairperson Geoffrey Obulejo urged the school community to take ownership of the woodlot and protect it from destruction.

“The trees we are planting today will beautify the school and protect the buildings from strong winds. Trees can also become a source of income. Personally, tree planting changed my life and helped me generate income over the years.”

Representatives of the implementing partners commended the strong participation of the school community and local stakeholders, noting that community ownership remains essential for the long-term success of environmental restoration efforts.

Through initiatives such as this World Environment Day commemoration, the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project continued to promote environmental stewardship, strengthen climate resilience, and encourage greater community participation in sustainable natural resource management across northern and western Uganda.