How Youth-led Initiatives are shaping a Sustainable Future in Nebbi
As the world grapples with the urgent need for climate action, young people are stepping up to the challenge. In Nebbi District, Uganda, one such group—El-three—has been leading the charge toward environmental sustainability. During this year’s Youth Day celebration, the organization made a remarkable contribution to the region’s reforestation efforts by donating and planting 1,715 tree seedlings across schools and communities.
Themed "Green Skills for Youth," the Youth Day marathon saw 35 El-three members run alongside other local organizations, uniting under a shared vision of a greener future. However, it was the tree-planting initiative that truly showcased the potential of youth-driven environmental action. The seedlings—ranging from fruit trees to mahogany and woodlot species—were distributed to seven schools, local government leaders, youth councils, and even traditional elders.
Each tree planted represents more than just an environmental contribution; it is a symbol of resilience, climate adaptation, and community empowerment. The selected schools—such as Asili Primary School and Nebbi Secondary School—will not only benefit from shade and greenery but also from the fruits these trees will bear in the coming years. Meanwhile, leaders from Padwot Youth Council and the Pawong Chiefdom received seedlings that will enhance community reforestation efforts, fostering a shared sense of responsibility toward environmental preservation.
El-three’s initiative is part of a broader movement to equip young people with the green skills necessary to confront climate change. By involving youth in tree planting and climate advocacy, the organization is building a generation that understands the importance of environmental stewardship.
This effort has garnered support from community leaders and institutions, but it needs sustained backing to reach its full potential. Continued support from donors, stakeholders, and the public will ensure that initiatives like this one not only survive but thrive, creating lasting impact across the region.
Our work continues to show, that investing in youth and environmental action is not just a moral imperative but also a practical solution to many of the pressing challenges facing our planet. It is a powerful reminder that when communities come together, lasting and meaningful change can be achieved.
