Kiryandongo tree farmers to benefit from World Bank-funded project

KIRYANDONGO, October 28, 2025 — Kiryandongo district is set to embark on an exciting journey that promises to benefit local farmers and foster environmental sustainability.

The Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development [IFPA-CD] project, funded by the World Bank, aims to mobilise farmers to establish and maintain forests.

With an ambitious target of creating 9,754 hectares of new woodlots across 19 districts of Uganda, Kiryandongo is poised to take the lead in this important initiative.

At the project’s inception meeting held recently at the district headquarters, Anselm Kyaligonza, the Chief Administrative Officer, emphasised the importance of focusing not only on creating new forests but also on managing existing ones.

“We must not overlook our existing forests,” Kyaligonza said. “Supporting current forest owners will encourage others to follow suit, creating a culture of conservation in our communities.”

He urged the project partners, NIRAS Consultants and the IFPA-CD team, to prioritise providing resources and assistance to local forest owners. By doing so, he noted, the project can inspire others to plant and nurture their own woodlots, creating a ripple effect of environmental stewardship.

According to Steve Nsita from NIRAS Consultants, funding will be allocated for extension services, which are essential for educating farmers on best practices in forestry management. The establishment of tree nursery beds will also support the propagation of native tree species, ensuring that the right trees are planted in the right locations.

Moreover, after six months of nurturing their newly planted trees, farmers will receive subsidies designed to incentivise their efforts and make sustainable forestry more accessible.

“These subsidies are not just financial rewards,” Nsita explained. “They are a way of recognising the farmers’ commitment to restoring and protecting Uganda’s natural environment.”

Jonathan Akweteireho, the Kiryandongo Deputy Resident District Commissioner [DRDC], called for initiatives such as free land titling for individuals who establish and maintain forests.

He noted that the approach would not only secure land ownership rights but also encourage community members to invest in their environment, aligning their economic interests with ecological sustainability.

“When people are sure the land they plant on is theirs, they take care of it better,” Akweteireho said. “That’s how we link livelihoods to environmental protection.”

He further urged district leaders to remain engaged with World Bank projects and other development partners. By continually evaluating the impacts of these initiatives on local livelihoods and the broader economy, stakeholders can ensure that benefits are maximised and that community needs remain at the forefront.

The IFPA-CD project represents more than a forestry initiative. It embodies a vision of community empowerment and environmental resilience.

As Kiryandongo mobilises its farmers to participate in this sustainable development effort, it has the opportunity to set a precedent for other districts across Uganda. The combination of financial support, education, and community incentives creates an environment where both people and nature can thrive harmoniously.

The IFPA-CD project is a promising venture for Kiryandongo district, aligning agricultural practices with environmental stewardship. Through collective efforts, local farmers can contribute to reforestation while enjoying economic benefits, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future.

It stands as a call to action for the community, urging everyone to participate in this vital endeavour and protect the natural resources that sustain their livelihoods.

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