Absa Bank Uganda has announced a major environmental commitment to grow two million trees over the next three years, in a renewed push to support climate action, ecosystem restoration and sustainable community development.
The initiative was unveiled alongside the launch of the 2026 School Greening Drive in Northern Uganda, implemented in partnership with My Tree Initiative.
Under the programme, 700,000 trees will be planted across 300 schools in Northern Uganda by December 2026, forming a key pillar of the bank’s broader three-year target.
The launch took place in Gulu City and was presided over by Deputy Mayor Christine Olok, who welcomed the initiative as a timely contribution to environmental restoration and climate resilience.
The programme, themed “Growing 700,000 Trees in 300 Schools Across Northern Uganda,” will engage about 150,000 students across 12 districts, including Gulu, Lira, Arua, Kitgum, Pader, Agago, Apac, Oyam, Dokolo, Nebbi, Yumbe and Adjumani.
Tree planting activities will run from April to November, with a final event scheduled for November 11, 2026 in Adjumani District.
Speaking at the launch, Francis Topacho, Chief Information Officer at Absa Bank Uganda, said the initiative reflects the bank’s long-term environmental commitment.
“Absa has been involved in greening efforts across Central, Eastern and Western Uganda. Expanding into Northern Uganda is a natural step. This partnership reflects our commitment to climate action and to being a positive force in the communities where we operate,” he said.
Ms Olok said the initiative aligns with national priorities on environmental restoration and climate resilience, adding that schools play a key role in shaping environmentally conscious citizens.
“This initiative speaks directly to our national priorities. By focusing on schools, we are not only restoring ecosystems but also shaping a generation that understands the importance of protecting natural resources,” she said.
The programme will incorporate geo-tagging technology to digitally track every tree planted, ensuring monitoring and accountability up to 2027.
More than 50 fruit forests will also be established in participating schools, featuring species such as mango, avocado, guava, jackfruit, grevillea and umbrella trees.
Enjer Ashiraf, Executive Director of My Tree Initiative, said the programme is designed to build long-term environmental ownership among learners.
“What we have learned is that when students plant a tree themselves, a transformation occurs. They water it, protect it and take pride in it,” he said.
Since 2023, Absa Bank Uganda and My Tree Initiative have planted nearly 900,000 trees across 860 schools, reaching more than 440,000 students nationwide.
The bank said the new phase will deepen its impact, particularly in Northern Uganda, where climate conditions make environmental restoration increasingly urgent.
