Centenary Bank has intensified its nationwide environmental efforts with a new Centenary Bank greening campaign launched in Kasese, marking another significant step in its long-term sustainability commitments. The initiative, rolled out in partnership with the Good Forests Foundation and Kasese District Local Government, will see 5,000 fruit and timber trees planted across the district to strengthen ecological restoration and build climate resilience.
Centenary Bank Greening Efforts Expand Nationwide
Speaking during the launch, Emmanuel Otuko, the bank’s Manager for Sustainability, emphasized that the Centenary Bank greening drive reflects the institution’s broader mission of safeguarding both the environment and the communities it serves. He noted that sustainability is now a core pillar of the bank’s strategy, complementing its work in financial inclusion.
This project forms part of the bank’s ambitious target of planting at least 70,000 trees in 2025. To date, Centenary Bank has planted 60,000 trees across various districts. Earlier in the year, the bank invested UGX 60 million in restoring 20 hectares of the Masindi Central Forest Reserve, working hand in hand with the National Forestry Authority.
Kasese Benefits from Long-Term Restoration Vision
Good Forests Foundation Director, James Thembo, explained that the Kasese project features carefully selected tree species designed to boost biodiversity, enrich soil health and support long-term environmental recovery. He commended Centenary Bank’s strong commitment, saying the partnership ensures the scale and impact needed to make restoration successful.
Kasese District officials welcomed the initiative and called on more organisations to join similar efforts. Assistant Resident District Commissioner Henry Kabiriri praised Centenary Bank’s continued contributions, adding that environmental protection requires collective and sustained action.
Sustainability Beyond Tree Planting
The bank’s environmental agenda goes beyond forestry. Centenary Bank has already transitioned six branches to solar energy and expanded green financing solutions, including WASH loans, green loans and power-connection financing for community projects promoting renewable energy.
The current drive also aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 objective of shifting toward a green, inclusive and climate-resilient economy. Government reports show Uganda’s forest cover has grown from 9.5% in 2015 to 13.3% in 2024, though officials warn that the progress remains fragile without sustained interventions.
