In Northern Uganda, vast freshwater wetlands that once protected communities from flooding and supported rich biodiversity are rapidly degrading due to deforestation, poor land use, and climate change. Local communities—especially women and youth—face the brunt of this destruction. With soil erosion worsening, water tables declining, and livelihoods disappearing, the urgency to act is now. If these ecosystems collapse, generations could lose access to clean water, food security, and natural resilience.
ReFi Uganda is restoring degraded wetlands through a community-led reforestation project using native, water-loving tree species. Though often called "mangrove" reforestation locally, the project focuses on inland riparian forests that provide similar ecological benefits—like flood mitigation, biodiversity protection, and carbon capture. Our model empowers local people to grow, plant, and care for seedlings—turning vulnerable communities into ecosystem guardians. With 50,000+ seedlings planted across 30 hectares and geo-tagged tracking in place, our impact is real and growing.
ReFi Uganda is a grassroots regeneration initiative rooted in the belief that environmental action must come from the ground up. We work alongside women’s groups, youth leaders, and traditional land stewards to design, implement, and monitor restoration activities. We don’t just plant trees—we nurture ecosystems and empower people to lead the climate transition in their own communities.
Between January 2023 and March 2024, ReFi Uganda and its partner communities planted over 50,000 native seedlings—including Ficus sycomorus, Mitragyna stipulosa, and Avicennia Africana, Bruguiera gymnorhiza, across 30 hectares of degraded wetland. The project included nursery establishment, planting campaigns, and post-planting care, with over 200 locals involved. Geo-referenced monitoring and community logs document an 82% survival rate and early signs of wetland regeneration—returning wildlife, improved soil retention, and revived local water sources.
We’re not just planting trees—we’re building a regenerative future, powered by communities who know their land best. Your support will help us expand to more wetlands, train more young leaders, and protect ecosystems that matter. Help us grow a greener Northern Uganda—tree by tree, root by root. 🌿