Five years ago, several foundations of the SRS Foundation Network in Stuttgart decided to support smallholder farmers through “Income through Reforestation in Uganda”. Find out more about the start of the collaboration here.
Since then, Fairventures Worldwide and Latek STAY Alliance Uganda have worked together closely to restore degraded land, train smallholder farmers, and promote sustainable agroforestry practices across Uganda. This initiative has not only planted trees, but also sown the seeds of a stronger, more resilient future for many communities.
From Pilot to Progress
The journey began in 2020 with a pilot phase in Western Uganda, where five local organizations worked to reforest degraded landscapes and improve livelihoods. Encouraged by the success, the project expanded into its second and final phase (2022-2024), reaching the Central and Eastern regions.
This time, four new partners—Save the Street Children Uganda (Luwero), Foundation for Development for the Needy Communities (Mbale), Youth Environmental Services (Busia), and Munarya Agro-Investment Organisation (Kapchorwa)—took up the mantle, ensuring deep community engagement and lasting impact.
Building Communities, Growing Forests
At the heart of all activities was an emphasis on community involvement. Socialization meetings brought together farmers, schools, churches, and local leaders, creating awareness and fostering enthusiasm for agroforestry. These gatherings paved the way for hands-on training in Good Agroforestry Practices (GAP), equipping farmers with essential knowledge on tree planting and sustainable land use.
Challenges and Lessons
As with any ambitious endeavour, the teams faced their fair share of obstacles. Natural disasters, including floods and landslides in Eastern Uganda, posed significant challenges. However, the team adapted—extending the seedling maturity timeline, using localized weather data for better planning, and conducting risk assessments to optimize cash crop yields. These lessons will shape future reforestation and agroforestry initiatives, ensuring more resilient and successful activities.
A Lasting Impact
By strengthening partnerships, increasing forest cover, and improving livelihoods, the collaboration has left a lasting mark on Uganda’s landscape and its people. According to the project manager, Samantha Natumanya, completing the second phase underscores the power of cooperation in restoring forests and supporting farmers.
“Completing the activities has been a testament to dedication and teamwork. We’ve not only planted trees, but also built stronger communities and a greener future for Uganda,” she shared.
As the initiative comes to a close, its impact will continue to grow—just like the trees that were planted across Uganda. And while this chapter ends, the seeds of sustainability and empowerment will keep flourishing for years to come.
On behalf of Fairventures Worldwide and the STAY Foundation, we would like to express our sincere gratitude – also on behalf of the Ugandan country teams – for the financial and invaluable support in principle, as well as the strong interest shown by the foundations and individuals involved.
The joint initative was made possible by the commitment of the following foundations: Heidehof Foundation, Louis Leitz Foundation, Gerhard und Paul-Hermann Bauder Foundation, Vector Foundation, The Schaufler Foundation, Gips-Schüle-Foundation, Josef Wund Foundation, Robert Bosch Foundation.