dfcu Bank, through its impact arm dfcu Foundation, has partnered with the Uganda Timber Growers Association (UTGA) to strengthen environmental conservation and promote sustainable economic opportunities through tree planting and farmer training initiatives.The partnership was highlighted during World Environment Day celebrations held in Mukono, where communities in Ntakanfunvu participated in a tree planting exercise and received training aimed at improving forestry management and enterprise development.The initiative is part of dfcu Foundation’s Tree Planting and Promotion Program (T3P), which seeks to combine environmental protection with income generation by supporting farmers to grow trees as a long-term business opportunity.
Through the program, dfcu Foundation has set a target of planting and promoting more than 500,000 trees by 2029 to support carbon reduction, biodiversity restoration, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods for communities. By 2025, the foundation had already planted and distributed more than 62,000 trees.During the World Environment Day activity, more than 80 trees were planted, reinforcing the message that successful conservation requires not only planting trees but also nurturing them to maturity for both environmental and commercial benefits.
The partnership between dfcu Foundation and UTGA combines financial expertise with technical forestry knowledge, helping tree growers acquire skills in sustainable forest management, business planning, and access to financial services. The approach is aimed at transforming tree growing into a profitable and resilient enterprise.Dr. James Ssemwanga, Chairperson of the UTGA and dfcu Foundation Boards, said tree growing presents an opportunity to create wealth while protecting the environment.
He emphasized the need for communities to invest in trees that provide long-term economic and ecological value.Participants at the event were also trained in financial literacy, including budgeting, record keeping, savings, and accessing credit, while UTGA experts provided guidance on improving productivity and managing woodlots sustainably.dfcu Foundation officials said the initiative demonstrates the bank’s commitment to climate-smart development by supporting communities to build sustainable businesses, protect natural resources, and create stronger economic opportunities through environmentally responsible practices.
