Deadline: 01-Dec-2025
The Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) has opened a call for proposals for its initiative titled “Restoration, Improved Management and Conservation of High-Value Forests, and Community Support for Preservation and Increased Tree Cover” in Eastern Uganda and the Napak District of Karamoja.
A new funding opportunity has been launched to support forest conservation and sustainable development in Uganda’s eastern region. The programme aims to enhance the long-term contribution of the country’s forest resources to both national economic growth and global environmental goals, particularly efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss.
The specific focus of this initiative is to promote environmental sustainability and economic development in eastern Uganda by supporting reforestation, agroforestry, and nature-based enterprises. Through these interventions, the programme seeks to restore degraded landscapes, reduce pressure on forest reserves, and create livelihoods that are aligned with conservation efforts.
The expected results of the programme are clearly defined. First, it aims to increase tree cover through restoration and better management of high-value forests, while encouraging community participation in conservation. Second, it promotes agroforestry practices and the regeneration of indigenous tree species, both of which help protect forest reserves and provide sustainable income sources for local communities. Third, the programme supports the development of non-timber forest enterprises that enhance the livelihoods of people living in the targeted areas. Lastly, it seeks to strengthen the capacity of institutions and stakeholders to manage forest resources and access forest-related financing.
This call for proposals prioritizes activities contributing to the first two outputs of the programme. These include efforts to expand tree cover through forest restoration and community-led conservation, as well as initiatives that promote agroforestry and the regeneration of native tree species. Projects that align with these areas are encouraged to apply.
The maximum grant available under this call is EUR 2,700,000, and it may cover up to 100% of the total eligible costs of the action. This allows applicants to focus fully on delivering meaningful, impact-driven interventions without the need for co-funding.
To be eligible for funding, the lead applicant must be a legal entity that is either for-profit or non-profit. Eligible organizations include non-governmental organizations, private companies, public sector bodies, local authorities, and international intergovernmental organizations. All applicants must be registered with the appropriate authority in Uganda and must be established in an EU Member State or in another eligible country as outlined under the relevant EU regulations.
For more information, visit Italian Agency for Development Cooperation.
