Equity Bank Uganda in partnership with the Umukuka wa Bugisu, the cultural leader of the Bamasaba, and Gro Foundation has launched a major tree planting initiative aimed at decarbonizing dumping sites and promoting environmental conservation in Bugisu subregion.
The project, covering eight acres around the major dumping site in Mbale city, will see the planting of trees that will act as natural carbon sinks, helping to keep the city green, safe and resilient to climate change impacts. The initiative also aims to prevent disasters similar to those experienced at Kitezi landfill in Kampala.
Under the collaboration, Equity Bank will provide Shs60million in financing while Gro Foundation, a nonprofit organisation focused on reforestation, will offer technical expertise to ensure that native tree species are planted, nurtured and monitored for long term sustainability.
The tree planting exercise was officially launched on Saturday by the Umukuka, during celebrations marking his two years as head of Bugisu Kingdom. By end of 2026, the partners target to plant 60,000 trees across the region.
Speaking at the event, Virginia Ssemakula, Equity Bank’s Manager for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, said the bank’s commitment goes beyond traditional banking.
“At Equity, we believe it is our responsibility to go beyond banking. That’s why we are heavily invested in energy and environmental initiatives,” she said. “We are investing in healthier communities and a more sustainable future, reflecting our vision of growing not only financial prosperity but also environmental resilience.”
Lydia Apeduno, the Mbale City Council Composite Manager, noted that trees planted around the landfills would help reduce carbon emissions.
“Dumping sites often emit gases such as carbondioxide. These trees will help in carbon reduction and also act as demarcations to prevent encroachment,” she said.
The program will also support the people of Bugisu in achieving agricultural and socio-economic transformation, while helping to mitigate recurring mudslides in the region.
Trees are expected to improve soil health, conserve water, and strengthen farm resilience against climate change, while providing farmers with food, fodder, and additional income sources.
Laban Musiguzi, from Gro Foundation, highlighted the broader benefits of agroforestry.
“Integrating trees into farming systems helps control soil erosion, manage pests and diseases, and create a more diverse and productive ecosystem,” he said. “This is not just about planting trees, but about planting hope — securing the environment and protecting the climate for generations to come.”
The event reaffirmed Equity Bank’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. The initiative is part of the bank’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy, which integrates sustainability into its core operations. Equity Bank has set a national target to plant 35 million trees by 2026.
