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Kitagwenda District is witnessing a remarkable turnaround thanks to the Environmental Conservation Trust of Uganda (ECOTRUST).
Through its innovative conservation financing initiatives, ECOTRUST empowers smallholder farmers to transform degraded land into thriving ecosystems while creating sustainable livelihoods.
Known for its biodiversity and agricultural potential, Kitagwenda has long struggled with challenges such as land degradation and poverty.
However, ECOTRUST's flagship program, Trees for Global Benefit (TGB), offers a sustainable solution.
By planting trees, farmers receive carbon credits that are sold on global markets, generating a stable income.
“I used to struggle with poor harvests and low income,” says Venesensio Rwangoga, a farmer from Kitagwenda town council.
“Now I make money from my trees and can afford to send my children to school.” His journey reflects the program’s success in improving both livelihoods and the environment.
The program goes beyond planting trees by teaching farmers basic skills.
Innocent Byamukama, Queen Elizabeth Coordinator for ECOTRUST, emphasized the importance of the training.
“We teach farmers about agroforestry, climate-smart agriculture and financial management. This knowledge ensures they manage their land sustainably and remain committed to the program,” he said.
Collaboration with local governments and community groups is also critical.
“Our partnership with Kitagwenda District authorities is helping to find suitable land for restoration and mobilizing more farmers to join.
These collaborations strengthen community resilience and promote sustainable development,” Byamukama added.
ECOTRUST's work is consistent with Uganda's sustainable development goals. Jonah Butsatsa, Communications and PR Coordinator at ECOTRUST, explained the organization's broader vision: “Our goal is to protect the functional connectivity of habitats and promote smallholder-led forest restoration as a business.”
By engaging private forest owners, governments and communities, we ensure the ecological integrity of natural capital while increasing livelihoods.”
Local leaders are also impressed by the initiative. “This program has significantly improved household incomes and livelihoods in Kitagwenda,” said Ismael Mushemeza, the district chairman. “We pledge our continued support to ensure success.”
The visible change in Kitagwenda's landscapes from degraded land to lush forests and productive farms symbolizes a better future for its communities.
ECOTRUST's conservation financing model proves that small farmers can lead the way in combating climate change and poverty.
Since its inception in 1999, ECOTRUST has expanded its impact to districts such as Kamwenge, Kasese, Rubirizi, Mitooma and Ibanda, among others.
Its mission to conserve biodiversity and improve social well-being through sustainable environmental management continues to inspire hope and action across the country.
As Kitagwenda thrives, ECOTRUST's work is a powerful example of how nature-based solutions can restore both the environment and livelihoods, paving the way for a sustainable future.