November 17, 2025 (Kotido, Uganda): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) officially launched the community led greening initiative in Kotido district; Kacheri Town Council and Kacheri Sub‑County under the project “Enhancing gender equality in access to land resources for transformative climate‑change adaptation in the IGAD Region.” Funded by the Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF) of the African Development Bank (AfDB), the initiative is a joint effort with Uganda’s Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; Ministry of Water and Environment; Ministry of Local Government and local communities. It aligns with Uganda’s National Urban Policy, Parish Development Model, and NDC commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The launching event, held at the Kotido District Headquarters, was timed to operationalize the draft Physical Development Plan (PDP) for Kacheri town Council and sub-County. Dr Addis Teshome, representing IGAD’s Land Governance Unit, appreciated the leadership, commitment and ownership of the local government in realizing the event which significantly contributes in building resilience and responds to community needs in the region. He also explained that the initiative will plant 5 500 multi-purpose tree seedlings across public spaces, schools and community woodlots, creating green buffers, improving land regenration and strengthening climate resilience in a region plagued by drought, food insecurity and environmental degradation. Speaking at the ceremony, Kotido’s Chief Administrative Officer Mr Oyuku Emmanuel Ocen underscored the importance of community ownership: “When women and youth help plant and protect these trees, we secure water sources, boost nutrition, and reduce disaster risk.”
The Kotido district LC 5 Chairman Hon. Komol Peter Lotee added his voice, saying, “This project is very much welcomed in our district. It shows real partnership for sustainable development and combating climate change. I appeal to IGAD and our development partners to extend this greening work to the other sub‑counties and institutions so that every corner of Kotido can benefit from healthier land and a greener future.” The Resident District Commissioner Kotido district Charles Ichogor said “I implore all district staff and every community member where these trees are planted to guard them until they thrive. Let’s not let a single seedling die – the future of our children depends on the shade and fruit these trees will give us.” The three‑day programme will see combined stakeholder consultations, community sensitization, and hands‑on tree‑planting which started at the district office, and will be followed by Kacheri Sub‑County HQ, Kacheri Primary School, Lokiding Primary School and nearby market sites in the coming two days. Selection criteria for the greening prioritised locations with unencumbered land, proximity to water, and clear caretakers ensuring survival and long‑term stewardship. IGAD will continue to promote resilience building initiatives through adopting participatory and inclusive approaches so that the different vulnerable groups can inform and benefit from interventions that addresses their respective climate vulnerabilities while meeting their economic and social needs.
