MASINDI, October 19, 2026 — The Midwestern Region Centre for Democracy and Human Rights [MICOD], in partnership with over 40 Village Savings and Loans Associations [VSLAs] across Masindi, Kiryandongo, and Buliisa districts, has launched a campaign to grow over 110,000 fruit and shade trees.
This initiative also aims to protect existing forests that are on the verge of being depleted.
With support from the Rotary Club of Masindi and the Rotary Club of Chilliwack, MICOD is working through VSLAs, each with a minimum of 30 active members in the implementation of the campaign.
On Thursday, October 15, 2026, MICOD launched the campaign by distributing various fruit and shade tree species at Bokwe village in Labongo sub-county, Masindi district. Masindi has 15 VSLAs, Buliisa has 13, and Kiryandongo has 18 participating.
Demonstration was also done on how to plant the trees following the best agronomic practices.
Among the fruit and shade trees distributed were avocado, mango, jackfruit, coffee, and cocoa and umbrella trees among others.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to MICOD for the support, stating their willingness to plant and grow trees.
“I am happy seeing my members receiving such support. This is a big boost to us and will enhance both our nutrition and our livelihoods,” said Simon Omara, Chairperson of the Bokwe VSLA.
Julius Baseme, Chairperson of Fanyananguvu VSLA, expressed optimism that he would begin harvesting the coffee he received within 2-3 years.
“We are going to ensure they are adequately cared for because they will provide us with fruits, shade, and also firewood, thereby protecting our natural forests,” Baseme added.
Perezi Wakeri from Abateraine VSLA commended the organisation, noting that this support supplements what he had already planted.
Lawrence Kangula, Executive Director of MICOD, explained that the organization signed a memorandum of understanding with all VSLAs to ensure the successful growth of all trees, adding that there’s going to be close supervision to ensure that their goal is achieved.
“Our main aim is to minimise the destruction of natural forests and promote the use of clean energy,” he said, adding that each member receives a minimum of 50 trees, which can be easily managed.
About the Project
Kangula stated that his organisation secured a US$ 30,000 [approximately Shs 114 million] project to address environmental and climate-related challenges in the region.
He explained that the project aims to reduce heavy reliance on firewood, currently estimated at 80 percent, while expanding access to clean-energy alternatives and promoting environmental tree planting.
This one-year project is being implemented in Kihungya Subcounty in Buliisa district, Labongo Subcounty in Masindi district, and Kigumba Subcounty in Kiryandongo district.
The initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions and environmental degradation through the adoption of clean-energy technologies and sustainable environmental practices.
The project aims to increase access to clean energy among 300 households, raise climate-smart awareness among 1,300 people, and promote conservation practices among another 300 households.
Under the same project, tree nursery beds have been established in Buliisa, Masindi, and Kiryandongo districts to produce more than 500,000 free tree seedlings, which will be distributed to VSLA members.
Kangula said the project is expected to reduce dependence on forests, increase the adoption of clean-energy solutions, improve climate awareness, and strengthen environmental restoration efforts.
“We expect to reach 1,500 direct beneficiaries and more than 2,000 indirect community members. We are using a community-driven approach through community-based organisations, village savings and loan associations, and collaboration with local government,” he explained.
About MICOD
The Midwestern Region Centre for Democracy and Human Rights [MICOD] empowers marginalised communities—women, youth, elderly, and children, by increasing their access to essential services. Since 2008, the organisation has promoted sustainable development, human rights, and democratic principles across eight districts: Masindi, Buliisa, Kibaale, Kiryandongo, Kikuube, Hoima, Kakumiro, and Kagadi.
https://thecooperator.news/masindi-lions-club-launched-to-tackle-school-dropouts-and-climate-change/
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