July 19, 2025 – Wanyange, Jinja.

As the Guest of Honour at the Laudato Si Green Festival held at Holy Cross Lake View S.S.S., Wanyange, Jinja on July 19, 2025, Mr. Male Joseph inspired youth and community members to harness the combined powers of digital technology, sustainable agriculture, and strong community partnerships for climate action.

A Foundation in Agro‑Development & Demonstration Farming

Mr. Joseph emphasized that his institution (Fruits of Faith Farm) not only provides agro-development consultancy, but also runs a demonstration farm on Maggineza Road, which also works with young people in schools and the community. He explained their model of excellence:

“We run a demonstration farm which is located in Maggineza Road … we are also running 10 different centres of excellence around the country … meant for sharing knowledge and innovations, but also reflecting the state of agriculture.”

Youth Energy & Collaboration in Agriculture

He acknowledged the youthful vigour present at the festival:

“This is such a big moment for me to stand here but especially gratifying to see so much youthful energy. It’s an opportunity to involve young leaders in agriculture, many of whom are only beginning their journeys.”

Mr. Joseph shared how he had grown in appreciation of agriculture himself:

“I came to learn about the Laudato Youth Initiative and Laudato Si Clubs no so long ago but I am very impressed by their model of work which engages young people in schools and community. This aligns well with my model where we  teach learn new agricultural innovations, preserve  creative and innovative spaces for relaxing and mentalhealth, practical training and education to commercial farmers, entrepreneurs, start-up businesses, communities and young people to serve communities.” 

Building Bridges Through Innovation & Community

Mr. Joseph called for collaboration:

“Building bridges through collaboration is crucial. That’s how we embrace innovations that young people are leading.”

He stressed the importance of framing innovation not just as high-tech, but as sustainable, livelihood-enhancing solutions:

“When we speak of agricultural innovation, often we think of sophisticated technology or science but the most important are sustainable approaches that improve livelihoods. Even simple, basic ways can make all the difference.”

Ecological Spirituality & Stewardship

Drawing on Laudato Si’s call for ecological consciousness, he urged attendees to become faithful stewards of creation:

“We are called to be keepers of our environment. Do your task in the best and most basic way possible. Ecological spirituality means embracing the reality of our environment and caring for it not only for ourselves, but for future generations.”

Embedding Values Beyond the Festival

Mr. Joseph encouraged that the values practiced at the green festival be carried beyond its setting:

“This initiative in schools is more than an event it’s a socializing moment where even students who live far from home learn these values. The values you learn now can you take them beyond the club, beyond the school, to influence your community?”

Harnessing Digital Technology and Innovation

He concluded with a clarion call to youth to take the lead in digital transformation:

“We call upon you to take the driving seat when it comes to digital optimization. Innovation is not only technology it’s thinking outside the box, doing things differently. With collaboration within the schools and our partners let’s ignite young people to innovate for the earth.”

In his closing remarks, Mr. Joseph implored the community to build small-scale partnerships that can grow the Laudato Youth Initiative and Laudato Si Clubs even further:

“If we build more collaborations and partnerships, we can ignite the potential of young people and keep growing this Laudato Youth Initiatives impact to our homes and communities.”

Key Takeaways from Mr. Male Joseph’s Speech

• Youth Engagement: Harness student energy and leadership in agriculture.
• Innovation: Focus on sustainability and livelihood not just tech.
• Collaboration: Build bridges and partnerships for greater impact.
• Stewardship: Instill ecological spirituality and care for creation.
• Digital Transformation: Empower youth to lead with digital tools and creative thinking.

Mr. Joseph’s call to action reminds us that climate action is both tangible and spiritual, rooted in community collaboration, digital empowerment, and a deep care for creation. With this mindset, the seeds sown at the Laudato Si Green Festival can blossom into lasting change. he said