By Sr. Magdalena Orczykowska – Ukusijoni, Uganda
In the sun bathed lands of Northern Uganda, the changing climate is no longer just a distant topic—it’s a daily reality.
Dry seasons have become longer and hotter, trees are disappearing due to charcoal burning and construction needs, and the air grows dustier by the day. In this challenging context, a seed of hope was planted – both literally and figuratively.
The idea was born during an online training for JPIC (Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation) animators, organized by the JPIC Commission of UISG and USG. Inspired and energized by the session, we felt called to act – starting with something small, yet deeply meaningful: trees.
As a team of missionaries, we organized an awareness sessions and tree distribution campaign in the refugee settlements of Maaji and Agojo. Our goal was simple—to educate about the importance of trees and provide seedlings that could be planted around the chapels and the homes in these communities.
A Message that Took Root
The event began with an engaging educational talk, supported by projected images showing the many benefits of trees—cooling the environment, cleaning the air, providing shade, preventing soil erosion, and offering food. People listened with deep interest.
You could see it in their eyes: something was stirring.
As soon as we asked, “Who is ready to plant a tree?” – every hand went up. Children, youth, elders – everyone wanted to be part of this movement. One moment remains engraved in my memory: a young girl, maybe nine or ten, quietly approached me and asked,
“Sister, can I also have my tree?”
She walked away proudly, holding a tiny acacia seedling like a treasure.
Hungry Goats and Growing Enthusiasm
While on the way to one of the chapels, we made a brief stop in town. Suddenly, a group of goats jumped on our car, trying to reach the avocado leaves we were carrying. It was a funny but serious reminder—young trees face many dangers: goats, cows, and termites. We emphasized to participants the need to protect their seedlings well.
To our surprise and delight, the demand for trees far exceeded what we had brought. Many people left asking when we would come again. The joy and sense of responsibility were contagious.
Planting a Better Future
This activity was more than a distribution—it was an awakening. The people of Maaji and Agojo understood that planting a tree is an act of hope, care, and resistance against climate change.
We are already planning to return next year at the start of the rainy season, with even more seedlings and stronger follow-up. The climate challenges are real, but the response of the community shows that with education and action, change is possible – one tree at a time.
