Uganda’s forest cover has declined to under 40% over the past decades, threatening biodiversity, water systems, and local livelihoods. In response, the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Ministry of Water and Environment, is developing a nature-based carbon offsets project around Mount Elgon National Park.

Restoring Forests to Fight Climate Change

Forests are powerful natural climate solutions. They absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂), release oxygen, and maintain healthy ecosystems for wildlife and communities. By restoring degraded landscapes, Uganda aims to mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience.

The Mount Elgon initiative is designed to plant 40 million trees in and around the park, which will:

Restore degraded forests and landscapes

Protect vital water catchment areas

Enhance biodiversity 

Strengthen climate resilience for surrounding communities

Carbon Offsets and Sustainable Energy

The project will be coordinated by the Alliance for Climate Resilience and is expected to generate verifiable carbon credits. These credits will help offset operational emissions while promoting sustainable energy practices in Uganda’s energy sector.

Currently, the project is undergoing validation at the Ministry of Water and Environment before a full rollout.

Community Involvement and Green Jobs

Local communities will play a central role in tree planting and forest restoration, creating:

- Green jobs and economic opportunities

- Strengthening environmental stewardship 

- Long-term resilience to climate impacts

By actively involving residents, the project ensures both environmental and social sustainability, making Uganda a leader in nature-based climate solutions in Africa.

Why the Project Matters

This 40-million-tree project is a landmark effort in Uganda’s fight against climate change. It highlights how large-scale reforestation can simultaneously:

- Sequester carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

- Protect soil and water systems

- Restore biodiversity and wildlife habitats

- Support sustainable development and green jobs

Mount Elgon’s forest restoration project demonstrates the power of nature-based solutions to address both climate and community challenges, making it a model for Africa and the world.