Partners pose for a group photo with Young environment champions from Buganda Road PS
Housing Finance Bank hosted an event to commemorate World Earth Day 2025 reaffirming its dedication to environmental sustainability with a bold pledge to plant 1 million trees by 2027. This long-term commitment is part of the Bank’s wider Tiny Forests initiative, a key pillar in its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda.
The Bank’s tree-planting campaign will focus on creating dense, fast-growing bamboo forests in partnership with schools like Buganda Road primary school that were in attendance, local councils like KCCA, and communities across Uganda. These “tiny forests” are designed to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, restore soil health, and increase climate resilience in urban and peri-urban spaces.
This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
“Sustainability must go beyond policy—it must be rooted in purpose and action,” said Doreen Nyiramugisha, Head of Marketing and Communications at Housing Finance Bank. “Our commitment to planting one million trees by 2027 is a legacy for future generations—a demonstration of the transformative power of collective environmental action. This aligns with the Bank’s high-impact goals of promoting sustainable housing, accelerating financial inclusion, and fostering the growth of enterprises, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future,” she said.
As part of the Earth Day celebration, the Bank distributed 1,000 bamboo shoots—650 to staff and 350 to customers—to encourage widespread participation in tree planting. Bamboo was selected for its significant ecological benefits: it produces 30% more oxygen and removes over three times more carbon dioxide than typical tree species. It is also fast-growing, low maintenance, and supports sustainable livelihoods.
Issa Katwesige, Assistant Commissioner for Forestry at the Ministry of Water and Environment, applauded the Bank’s environmental leadership.
“Housing Finance Bank’s commitment is a shining example of corporate responsibility. Initiatives like this are critical to restoring Uganda’s ecosystems, especially in urban areas where green space is most at risk,” said Katwesige.
The event was held in collaboration with Greening Africa, whose Board Chair, Olga Rucogoza Ajiri, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative:
“Real change begins when we act. Through this project, we are not just planting trees—we are planting hope, resilience, and a greener future for all Ugandans.”
By setting a clear target of 1 million trees by 2027, Housing Finance Bank continues to position itself as more than a financial institution—it is a champion of environmental transformation, working together with communities to build a sustainable Uganda.
