United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation(JOCDEF), Oxfam and United Bank for Africa (UBA) have planted trees across Bugisu and Sebei region as part of the pre-marathon activities leading upto the 3rd edition of the Elgon Half Marathon with Joshua Cheptegei in Mbale City on November 1, 2025.
Environment conservation and sustainability, waste management, menstrual hygiene, knowledge management and elimination of all forms of gender based violence (GBV) topped discussions throughout the school and community visitations.
Over 4,500 indigenous and exotic tree species from Oxfam like palm, pine, whistling pine, eucalyptus, bamboo, podocarpus, cryprus, etc and fruit trees like mango, orange, jackfruit, guava, among others were planted, distributed reusable menstrual pads from UNDP and 1401 novels (the DEEP BLUE Between by Ayesha Harruna Attah and FINE BOYS by Eghosa Imasuen) from UBA to boost reading culture among students.
Leading the tree planting exercise at Bukonde Secondary School in Mbale, Anthony Kuka Cherotich, chairperson board at JOCDEF emphasized the crucial role of trees in amplifying climate action and conservation in the bio-diverse Elgon region, broadened inclusive and meaningful participation within schools as well as advocating against GBV.
At Sebei College Tegeres, JOCDEF CEO Abraham Kiplimo asked the students to commit themselves to planting trees for a better future. “Today, we plant seeds of hope and a greener future. Trees represent life, sustainability, and our collective responsibility to protect the environment. As young leaders, your actions matter” he said advocating for togetherness to create a healthier planet and a brighter future for all.
Stephen Mella Sikor, district natural resource officer Bukwo at Chekwasta P/S & SS emphasized the district’s commitment to greening and pledged their support towards the integrated programme. He said ” the greening initiative will foster more resilient eco-systems through incorporating native species with exotic trees” calling on other stakeholders to embrace the exercise.
Other schools that benefited from the greening campaign include; Kapsekek P/S, Bukwo district, Moyok Seed and Kwosir SS & Benet P/S in Kween, Kaptyana Seed SS in Kapchorwa, Doko P/S in Mbale, Nambalu SS and Bugusege P/S in Sironko district as well as Sipi and Sironko river banks which were enriched with bamboo trees. Students and communities showed great enthusiasm and commitment to environmental conservation.
The 3rd edition of the Elgon Half Marathon 2025 with renowned world and Olympic Champion Joshua Cheptegei is expected to draw thousands of runners, supporters, climate champions and corporate institutions from across the country and beyond as they run for climate action, gender equality and youth economic empowerment.
