Jinja, Uganda – Bethany Land Institute (BLI) proudly participated as a partner in the 3rd Laudato Si’ Green Festival, joining the Laudato Si’ Club of Holy Cross Secondary School Lake View, S.S.S Wanyange, Jinja under the inspiring theme: “Environmental Conservation for Peace and Sustainable Development.”
The annual festival brought together 27 schools, students, educators, religious leaders, government officials, and environmental advocates in a shared commitment to caring for our common home. The day’s activities featured a vibrant green march, a Eucharistic celebration, and engaging discussions that highlighted practical solutions for environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Peter Caxton Mayanja, C.S.C, who called on participants to translate their faith into meaningful action by protecting God’s creation. His message echoed the spirit of Laudato Si’, emphasizing that environmental stewardship is both a moral responsibility and an expression of Christian discipleship.
A distinguished panel of speakers—including Mr. Bernard Kahwa, Br. Adolf Mugume, C.S.C., Hon. Salaam Musumba, and Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba—challenged young people to become leaders in environmental conservation. They encouraged students to adopt sustainable lifestyles, safeguard natural resources, and harness emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges.
Bethany Land Institute showcased its Agroforestry Model Demonstration, highlighting the transformative role of integrated farming systems in restoring ecosystems, improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening climate resilience. The demonstration provided students and visitors with practical insights into sustainable land management and climate-smart agriculture.
BLI’s participation reaffirmed our partnership with the Laudato Youth initiative and its commitment to equipping communities and young people with innovative, nature-based solutions that promote environmental restoration, food security, and sustainable livelihoods as a way of promoting an integral ecology routed in Laudato Si.
As the festival concluded, participants left inspired to become active stewards of creation—working together to build a greener, more sustainable future for Uganda and beyond.
Together, we continue to inspire a generation committed to environmental stewardship, innovation, and sustainable development.
