Civil society groups in Unity State have launched a large-scale tree planting campaign in Bentiu, stepping up efforts to counter the devastating impacts of climate change that have battered the region for years.
The campaign, led by the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resource (CSCNR), aims to raise awareness on climate adaptation and mobilize communities to fight environmental destruction through tree planting and conservation.
Officials from the State Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, schools, health institutions, civil society groups, traditional chiefs, women, youth, IDPs, and returnees all took part in the launch.
CSCNR Programme Officer Gizam Moses underscored the urgency of the campaign, noting that Unity State has endured six consecutive years of climate shocks — from floods to loss of grazing land and worsening food insecurity.
“It is our collective responsibility to adapt by planting more trees, stopping deforestation, and abandoning harmful practices like bush burning,” Moses said.
Women and schools in Bentiu have pledged to lead the drive.
Tapitha Nyalony Gai, Deputy Head Teacher of Bentiu Girls Primary School, said students will protect and nurture the newly planted trees.
“Climate change has killed our cows, destroyed farms, and displaced our people. Women bear the greatest burden. We will protect these trees and spread awareness across Unity State,” she stressed.
Chuol Mathuok Piet from the State Ministry of Health highlighted that flooding has fueled disease outbreaks in Unity.
“Planting trees, including fruit trees, will protect the environment, provide food, and improve public health,” he said.
The campaign signals a renewed push by civil society to position local communities at the heart of climate action, emphasizing that planting trees is not just about greening the land but also about restoring livelihoods, protecting health, and building resilience in one of South Sudan’s hardest-hit states.
