By Uziah Tusaasire
In the heart of Uganda’s rural areas, where environmental challenges are significant and often overlooked, Evelyne Ninsima Kikafunda emerges as a dedicated champion of conservation. Her tireless efforts are transforming the way communities interact with their natural surroundings, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Evelyne’s journey into environmental conservation began in the Rubanda district of South Western Uganda, when she noticed the detrimental effects of deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution in her community. Realizing the urgent need for action, she took it upon herself to educate and mobilize local residents towards more sustainable practices.
As a founder and president of Green Environment Promotion, one of her primary initiatives is reforestation. Evelyne organizes community tree-planting drives, encouraging the planting of native trees to restore degraded lands. These efforts not only combat deforestation but also improve soil quality and provide habitats for local wildlife. Her work in promoting agroforestry—integrating trees into agricultural landscapes have helped farmers in Rubanda and Kigezi to increase their crop yields while protecting the environment.
Water conservation is another cornerstone of Evelyne’s mission. She introduces simple yet effective techniques such as rainwater harvesting and the construction of small-scale water storage systems. These methods ensure that communities have access to clean water during dry seasons, reducing the strain on local water resources.
Evelyne also addresses waste management by promoting composting and recycling. She conducts workshops where she teaches residents how to convert organic waste into compost, which enriches the soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Her efforts in encouraging the use of biodegradable materials help minimize pollution and keep the environment clean.
Through her environmental education programs, Evelyne empowers the younger generation to take an active role in conservation. She collaborates with schools to integrate environmental studies into the curriculum, organizes eco-clubs, and leads field trips that connect students with nature.
The impact of Evelyne Kikafunda’s work is profound. Her initiatives have led to greener, more resilient communities that are better equipped to face environmental challenges. She has not only improved the ecological health of rural areas but has also inspired a sense of responsibility and care for the environment among the people.
Evelyne’s dedication and innovative approach make her a true hero in environmental conservation, proving that even small, community-driven efforts can lead to significant and lasting positive change.
It’s no surprise that she was recently awarded the Outstanding Female in Climate Action at the Grassroots Level Award by The Global Green Growth Institute, among other international accolades she has received.
