The Microfinance Support Centre (MSC), in partnership with Butambala District leaders and St. Charles Lwanga Kayenje Catholic Day and Boarding Primary School, has planted 800 fruit trees in a bid to replenish the environment.
The tree-planting exercise, conducted under MSC’s corporate social responsibility programme, brought together pupils, local leaders, and community members. Each student and Emyooga beneficiary received a fruit tree to plant at home.
Speaking during the exercise, MSC representative Joseph Balaza said the initiative is part of broader efforts to address environmental degradation and instill a culture of tree planting among young people.
“We carried out this activity mindful that climate change is a global challenge,” he said.
“Cutting down trees, encroachment on wetlands, and degradation of natural resources are major concerns. That is why we brought 800 fruit trees to plant here in Butambala,” Balaza added.
He noted that MSC plans to replicate similar initiatives across the country alongside its financial empowerment programmes.
“Every time we release additional seed capital, we will also integrate tree planting as part of our corporate social responsibility,” he said.
Balaza emphasized that involving learners was intentional, aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice.
“Students often learn about environmental conservation in class, but we wanted them to experience it practically. We encourage them to continue planting and nurturing trees,” he added.
Butambala Resident District Commissioner Hajji Moses Ddumba urged students to take responsibility for the trees.
“Do not just plant these trees—ensure they grow so you can benefit from them in the future. Make it a habit to plant a tree every birthday,” he advised.
He also called for stronger environmental protection measures, including stricter controls on deforestation.
Headteacher Jacob Aoru welcomed the initiative, describing it as both educational and beneficial to pupils’ health.
“These trees will serve as a practical learning resource, and in the future, the fruits will provide essential nutrients for our learners,” he said.
He pledged that the school would ensure the trees are protected and nurtured to maturity.
The activity coincided with the disbursement of Shs260 million in additional seed capital to 13 Emyooga SACCOs in Butambala, aimed at boosting household incomes and supporting small businesses.
