14/07/2025
*Young Forest Champions Workshop Launched in Uganda*
The National Forestry Authority (NFA), in partnership with Youth Go Green and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has launched a three-day Young Forest Champions Workshop to empower youth in sustainable forest management and conservation.
Welcoming participants, NFA Executive Director Mr. Stuart Maniraguha emphasized forestry’s vital role in Uganda’s development and its links to sectors like agriculture, energy, and health. “Forestry is no longer a local issue but a global concern that requires collective action,” he said, encouraging youth involvement and recalling the planting of the first exotic tree in South Western Uganda. “When the old trees are gone, the young ones will make the forest more firm,” he added.
FAO’s Eva Ntara, facilitator of the initiative, highlighted the synergy between forestry and agriculture. “Forestry supports agriculture, the backbone of many African economies,” she noted, commending the youth for their energy and commitment to conservation.
Mr. Saul Ndigabwandiho, Forestry Officer at the Ministry of Water and Environment, stressed the importance of agroforestry and urged young people to adopt tree-planting and forest-friendly practices. “Let’s work together to increase forest cover and promote sustainable management,” he said.
Mr. Edwin Muhumuza, CEO of Youth Go Green, thanked the government for its support and called for collective responsibility. “You are the future leaders—take ownership of forest conservation for generations to come,” he told participants.
The workshop concluded with a united call to action for youth to lead forest preservation efforts in their communities. It marks a key step in building a generation of forest champions committed to a greener, more sustainable Uganda.