Makerere University has taken another step towards environmental sustainability with the launch of the Green Makerere Initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the 92nd Guild President, H.E. Kadondi Gracious. Launched on November 6, 2026, at the University’s Main Hall under the theme “Becoming an Ambassador to Climate Action, a Generational Call,” the initiative seeks to mobilise students and other stakeholders to take responsibility for protecting the university’s environment.
Speaking at the launch, Kadondi explained that the initiative was inspired by her desire to leave a meaningful legacy at Makerere, an institution she credits for shaping her personal growth. She challenged students to reclaim the culture of environmental responsibility, particularly by addressing littering and poor waste disposal. She noted that improperly disposed plastic bottles often find their way into drainage channels and waterways, contributing to blocked drainage systems and flooding. Her message was a call for individual responsibility, urging students to stop placing the entire burden of environmental protection on government and instead become active participants in climate action.
A clean campus begins with you. A greener Uganda begins with us!
H.E. Kadondi Gracious
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the Dean of Students, Dr. Winfred Kabumbuli, described the initiative as more than an environmental programme, calling it a commitment to protecting the university, its environment and future generations. She highlighted the growing environmental challenges facing Makerere, including increasing plastic waste and pressure on green spaces resulting from infrastructure development. She emphasised that a clean and green campus contributes to physical health, mental well-being, productivity and the overall quality of university life. She also commended the Guild President for mobilising partnerships to support the initiative, including the Parliament of Uganda, Roofings Group and Towa Uchafu na Nusu, among other organisations.
The Chief Guest, Hon. Gerald Karuhanga, Member of Parliament for Ntungamo Municipality, commended the Guild President and her Ministry of Estates and Environment for championing the initiative. He highlighted the importance of tree planting in providing shade, reducing pollution and improving air quality. He further challenged Makerere to become a model for environmental conservation across Uganda, encouraging other universities, secondary schools and primary schools to adopt similar initiatives. He called upon environmental organisations, the National Forestry Authority and the Ministry of Water and Environment to support the student-led campaign, emphasising that partnerships and resources are essential to turning environmental ambitions into lasting action.
The 92nd Minister for Estates and Environment, Mr. Talemwa Rodney Baguma, explained that the initiative will focus on planting different varieties of trees, including shade and fruit trees. While shade trees will provide relief to students, particularly during sunny days, fruit trees will offer additional benefits to the university community. He emphasised that the initiative goes beyond planting trees; its broader ambition is to restore the green identity that has long characterised Makerere University and Uganda. He also called upon other universities to embrace the campaign, noting that young people have the potential to drive lasting environmental change.
A Generational Call to Action
The Green Makerere Initiative presents an opportunity for students, university staff, partners and visitors to become active ambassadors of environmental conservation. Its success, however, will depend on more than the launch ceremony. Consistent waste management, tree maintenance, protection of green spaces and individual responsibility will be essential in sustaining its impact. As Makerere continues to grow, the challenge is to ensure that development does not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.
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