In her speech, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, called on students and religious leaders to actively protect the environment and use technology responsibly, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Addressing more than 2,000 youth, educators, and environmental organizations at the Laudato Si’ Green Festival in Jinja, the Minister highlighted the link between natural resources and human well-being. She urged young people to protect green spaces, preserve soil health, and understand the environment’s role in securing their future.

As Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Lumumba outlined the government’s plans to implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture. She noted that AI can help farmers monitor crops and livestock, enhance agricultural practices, and support food security.

She emphasized nature’s essential role in sustaining Uganda’s ecosystem, noting that wetlands and forests generate approximately 40% of the country’s rainfall. She observed that plants “smile” when they receive natural rainfall, which is reflected in vibrant flowers and healthy, glossy leaves.

The Day’s Color Scheme and the Laudato Youth Initiative Colors

She used the day’s colors to illustrate her message: Green represents the natural spaces and plants we aim to protect. White signifies the light essential for plant growth. Cream or yellow symbolizes sunlight, the primary energy source that drives photosynthesis and supports solar power technology for sustainable living. Brown, reflected in her attire, represents the soil that nourishes and sustains the environment.

Using Technology for the Good

As the minister responsible for AI, Lumumba explained how technology can reduce human impact on the environment and offer practical solutions for agriculture. She highlighted several AI applications in farming:

Pest Detection: Farmers can use smartphones to photograph crops, enabling AI to identify threats such as the fall armyworm.

Precision Agriculture: AI can recommend the appropriate type and amount of treatment for each plant, as well as the correct application method, such as spraying leaves or treating the soil.

Livestock Health: AI can analyze animal photographs to identify potential internal health issues. It can also verify the quality of veterinary medicines, reducing the risk of counterfeit or ineffective products. She thanked the festival organizers for promoting faith-based environmental action and for developing a scalable initiative that educates and engages people of all ages, beginning with the youngest.

She challenged students to use modern technology purposefully, rather than as a distraction. She encouraged them to value their education and apply their knowledge and skills to address challenges in their communities and the country. She emphasized that building a safe and inclusive digital environment in Uganda requires collective effort.

She expressed appreciation for the eco innovations at the Laudato Si Green Festival, which many described as a launchpad for Uganda’s next generation of environmental leaders.

www.EmpiisaEnungi.com

Speaking about the program launch, she thanked the organizers for promoting faith-inspired environmental action and creating a scalable event that engages all generations. She noted that the www.empiisaenungi.com program aligns with her work in national guidance and youth formation, particularly in strengthening moral values and faith-inspired ecological citizenship that integrates cultural values and celebrates the heroic values of the Late Pope Francis and the Late Bishop Charles Martin Wamika of Jinja Diocese. She concluded by urging young people to become responsible environmental stewards by embracing education, innovation, and technology to build a greener, more sustainable Uganda.

National Guidance and Social Impact

Beyond technology and agriculture, Lumumba shared about her responsibilities in National Guidance. She expressed concern that digital platforms such as TikTok can sometimes undermine cultural and religious values among young people. She encouraged students to use technology responsibly, for humanity’s benefit, and to promote knowledge and positive social values.

She applauded the Laudato Si Green Festival as an exemplary educational program in Uganda, with practical benefits such as enhancing eco-restoration and promoting cultural and religious values. She noted that trees increase oxygen levels, support healthy brain function, and help students learn more effectively.

Listen to the full Speech