RWICA Partners in Youth-Led Forest Restoration at Lazarus Forest

In commemoration of International Day of Forests, RWICA (Rethinking Ways of Living with Nature in Africa) proudly partnered in a two-day environmental action event held at Lazarus Forest, located in Nandere Local Forest Reserve, Luwero District. Organized under the theme: “Planting Roots of Change: Youth Stories for Healthy Forests and Water Futures,” the initiative brought together youth, local communities, and environmental stakeholders to take practical steps toward restoring degraded forest landscapes and promoting sustainable environmental practices. Forests play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, regulating climate, and protecting water resources. However, increasing deforestation and environmental degradation continue to threaten these ecosystems. The Lazarus Forest restoration initiative was therefore a timely intervention aimed at reversing environmental damage while empowering communities to take ownership of conservation efforts. Over the course of the two-day event, participants engaged in a range of impactful activities, including conservation storytelling, environmental awareness sessions, and hands-on training in sustainable tree planting and maintenance techniques. The highlight of the event was the successful planting of 2,000 indigenous and environmentally suitable trees, contributing directly to landscape restoration and climate resilience. The event also served as a platform for strengthening collaboration between youth-led organizations and local communities. Through shared learning and collective action, participants were able to exchange ideas, build networks, and reinforce their commitment to environmental stewardship. RWICA’s participation in this initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting nature-based solutions, advancing climate action, and supporting community-driven approaches to environmental sustainability. By working alongside partners and local communities, RWICA continues to contribute to building resilient ecosystems and empowering the next generation of environmental leaders. As environmental challenges continue to grow, such collaborative efforts demonstrate the power of partnerships in driving meaningful and lasting impact. The Lazarus Forest initiative stands as a strong example of how youth-led action, combined with community engagement, can restore ecosystems and secure a sustainable future.