DTB and NFA partner to restore Kasonke Forest Reserve in Masaka

Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) and the National Forestry Authority (NFA) have partnered to restore Kasonke Forest Reserve in Masaka, where over 31% of the forest has been lost to charcoal production, agriculture, and settlement.

Originally spanning 508 hectares, Kasonke is a vital water catchment area for Lake Victoria and a significant bird sanctuary for Masaka City and surrounding areas.

Under the partnership, the initial phase will involve planting at least 10,000 trees across 15 hectares, primarily indigenous species like Musizi and Musambya.

On November 9, NFA spokesperson Juliet Mubi highlighted Kasonke’s historical importance, noting that it has supported rich ecosystems since its designation as a protected area by the colonial government in 1922.

Traditionally, the forest has played a crucial role in conserving water sources, protecting land, and supporting diverse flora and fauna.

However, recent unregulated encroachment, especially where boundary markers have faded, has caused significant degradation, with nearly 158 hectares of the forest lost.

Mubi emphasized that Uganda’s forest cover has declined drastically since independence, dropping from almost 50% to about 13% today.

DTB’s Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking, Kaziro Kyambadde, expressed that DTB is committed to sustainability and climate action in line with Uganda’s Vision 2020-2025 and the bank’s own Net Zero goal by 2030. “At DTB, we view climate risk in finance as critical,” Kyambadde said. “That’s why we apply stringent ESG criteria to all projects we support. As we finance development, we ensure no harm to our natural environment. From monitoring pollution in manufacturing to ensuring worker protections, our ESG commitments reflect our belief that banks must actively contribute to sustainable growth.”