Church Of Uganda Abolishes Wreaths On Burials: Full Policy Inside.

Kampala, Uganda: In a groundbreaking move, the Church of Uganda has abolished the tradition of laying wreaths on caskets during burials, opting instead for tree planting as a more environmentally friendly alternative. This decision is part of the Church’s new Strategic Planning Framework for 2026-2030, which aims to promote environmental protection and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The framework, approved during a joint session of the Provincial Council and the House of Bishops, instructs all 39 dioceses to step up their responses to environmental conservation, climate change adaptation, and disaster preparedness. As part of this effort, priests will be required to integrate environmental conservation and climate change messages into their sermons and sensitize Christians on the dangers of polythene bags to the soil and environment.

Each diocese will also be required to establish an Environmental Protection Coordination taskforce, appoint focal persons, and promote the use of renewable energy and alternative cooking sources. The taskforce will ensure that all idle Church land is planted with a mix of fruit trees and indigenous varieties for food and carbon generation.

Reverend Canon William Ongeng, the Church of Uganda Provincial Secretary, noted that the new framework was developed to address the emerging challenges facing communities due to environmental destruction. “This framework was informed by the end-line evaluation of the strategic plan for 2016-2025, and involved wide consultations with all Bishops, staff, and leaders of key ministries of government,” he explained.

The Church will also use its structures to train farmers on climate-smart agriculture practices, promote the use of simple irrigation technologies, and strengthen extension services to support farmers.

Archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu expressed hope that the new framework will enable the dioceses to adapt to the changing environment and address emerging issues. He urged the Bishops to collaborate with government ministries, civil society actors, and non-governmental organizations to achieve the intended strategic objectives.

A 24-member steering committee has been instituted to oversee the implementation of the framework across all dioceses. The Church has also developed a monitoring and evaluation tool to guide performance assessment in each diocese.

The move by the Church of Uganda is a significant step towards promoting environmental protection and sustainability in the country. By adopting green burials and promoting environmentally friendly practices, the Church is setting a positive example for its followers and the wider community.