LORD MAYOR CALLS FOR HIGH CARBON-ABSORBING TREES AS KCCA LAUNCHES BIODIVERSITY SURVEY REPORT

Kampala's Lord Mayor, H.W. Erias Lukwago, has called for the planting of high carbon absorption trees throughout the city to address rising carbon emissions and enhance urban greenery.

Speaking at the launch of the Kampala Biodiversity and Socio-Ecological Survey Report, Lukwago underscored the need to transform Kampala into a greener city that balances development with environmental conservation.

"Reducing emissions in an urban setting like Kampala starts with restoring our green spaces. Trees that absorb high levels of carbon are the frontline defense against pollution and Climate Change" Lukwago said.

The Report is the city’s first comprehensive analysis of biodiversity in its green spaces and wetlands.

"This report won’t just sit on our shelves," said Mayor Lukwago. "It will serve as a guiding manual, helping us build a green city. We have a very rich diversity, and we’re committed to implementing the report’s recommendations to develop blue and green infrastructure across Kampala.”

Developed in partnership with the Sustainable Learning and Inclusive Cities Kampala-Strasbourg (SLICKS) project, the report reveals critical insights into the state of the city’s ecosystem, highlighting the need for conservation efforts across Kampala’s 16 major green and blue spaces, such as Jubilee Park, Constitutional Square, and Nakivubo, Lubigi, and Kansanga wetlands.

The report identified over 2,248 individual birds spanning 108 species, underscoring Kampala’s rich but fragile urban biodiversity. The report documented 345 tree species and mapped over 260 acres of public green spaces using GIS, underscoring the importance of these areas in promoting urban biodiversity.

Additionally, sightings of mammals, including Vervet monkeys and African ground squirrels, were recorded, demonstrating the ecological richness of Kampala’s urban spaces.

However, it also raised conservation concerns for several species, such as the critically endangered White-backed Vulture and the endangered Grey Crowned Crane and African Grey Parrot, stressing the need for protective measures.

One of the report’s unique aspects is its focus on community perspectives on conservation. Officials stressed that local engagement is crucial, as residents’ awareness and involvement help sustain biodiversity in urban environments.

Ivan Katongole, the Deputy Director Land use planning and development noted, “We need to protect our wetlands and leave green spaces that accommodate real animals, not just statues. This not only helps biodiversity but also attracts tourism.”

Through various initiatives, KCCA has achieved significant milestones in green space preservation. These include an updated inventory of over 134,000 trees, a pilot wetland restoration in Kyanja using phytoremediation technology, and an upgraded tree nursery for reforestation efforts.

The KCCA’s Blue and Green Infrastructure Master Plan aims to preserve Kampala’s biodiversity amidst rapid urban growth, aligning with global conservation goals like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

“This survey highlights the importance of urban biodiversity, which plays a crucial role in improving air quality, reducing heat, and creating habitats,” said Fred Yikii from Makerere University’s School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences. “Strengthening KCCA’s capacity in green space management will enhance both the beauty and ecological health of the city.”

Cornelius a GIS Officer, from KCCA’s Physical Planning Directorate emphasized the importance of the Blue-Green Infrastructure Master Plan, which he described as essential to “keeping Kampala functional and vibrant for biodiversity and people alike.”

With the launch of the Kampala Biodiversity and Socio-Ecological Survey Report, KCCA aims to guide Kampala’s transition to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious city, balancing the demands of urbanization with the protection of its natural heritage.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer