MY GREEN ACTION CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED IN SCHOOLS

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi has called on citizens and the private sector to join efforts to protect the environment as the My Green Action Campaign was launched at Kitante Hill School.on June 19.

The initiative, implemented by Solutions For People (S4P) in partnership with UNICEF Uganda, Roofings Limited, KCCA and Volcano Energy, seeks to empower young people across 10 schools in Kampala and Wakiso districts to take action on environmental conservation.

Speaking at the launch, Kigenyi said the campaign aligns with KCCA's efforts to improve the environment and the quality of life for city residents.

"This campaign is very central for you and me and for what KCCA stands for," Kigenyi said. "There are many issues in the city, but one of the least talked about is pollution, especially air pollution."

He said KCCA's Climate Change Action Strategy aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 22% by 2030 through initiatives such as the introduction of electric buses, expansion of non-motorized transport, and implementation of the Kampala Urban Forest Management Plan.

"KCCA is committed to improving the environment and quality of life. This is something we must do together because KCCA alone would fail if we don't have anchors and partners," he said.

Kigenyi thanked Kitante Hill School for hosting the launch, describing it as "one of the leafy schools in the city."

He added that KCCA continues to preserve and maintain green spaces such as Centenary Park and Kamwokya Children's Park, while also working to protect and expand Kampala's urban tree cover, which currently stands at about 160,000 trees.

Ugandan musician Bebe Cool aka Moses Ssali, urged schools and households to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal and support the transition to cleaner energy.

"Saving the climate and environment of Uganda starts with us," Bebe Cool said. "Schools are still using firewood and charcoal, and we also use these fuels at home. The rate at which trees are being cut down is worrying. Let us conserve our environment and support schools to transition to green energy."

The My Green Action Campaign will engage students in environmental activities and encourage young people to become active participants in protecting Uganda's environment.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer