The Kuuma Obutonde Bwensi (Protect the Environment) Project, known as KOB, was started by a group of fifteen learners—seven men and eight women—from the Balikyewuunya ICOLEW Community Empowerment Group in Kabalungi village, Butiti Parish, Lwanda Sub-county, Rakai District, Uganda. The project was initiated as a response to the increasing environmental degradation in their area.

Uganda faces one of the highest rates of forest loss globally, estimated at 2.6% per year. The 2016/17 Uganda National Household Survey revealed that over 80% of rural households rely on firewood for cooking. Through training sessions led by Unbound under the ICOLEW program, the community members learned that widespread deforestation contributes to climate change, resulting in prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, and unpredictable weather patterns. They discussed various strategies for environmental protection, including the production of charcoal briquettes, tree planting, and finding new uses for plastic waste.

Motivated by what they learned, the group came together to form the KOB project, short for Kuuma Obutonde Bwensi, which translates to "Protect the Environment." They launched several initiatives, such as a reforestation campaign they called "CUT ONE, PLANT TWO," aimed at planting two new trees for every one cut down. Additionally, they began producing charcoal briquettes as a sustainable alternative to firewood, removing plastics from the soil, and engaging the community in environmental awareness activities.

As part of the reforestation effort, each member planted eight indigenous trees, including Muvule (Cedar), Mugavu (Albizia), and Musizi (Umbrella), along their property boundaries. By June 2024, the group had collectively planted 160 trees, with 40 additional trees donated to local schools. Fruit trees like jackfruit, mango, avocado, and jambula were also planted, providing extra income and nutrition for families.

The production of charcoal briquettes has become a key activity for the group, meeting both household needs and generating income. Currently, they produce over 100 kilograms of briquettes per week, selling each kilogram for UGX 1,000. So far, the group has saved UGX 600,000, which they plan to use to purchase a better mixing machine. This new equipment will help improve the quality and quantity of the briquettes, allowing them to expand their market by October 2025 and boost income for the members.

Despite these successes, the KOB project faces challenges, including unpredictable weather and limited funds for outreach efforts. The group members have decided to continue educating people in nearby villages and pooling their own resources to sustain their activities. Their efforts have already made a difference in the community, reducing the reliance on firewood and sparing girls from the long, risky trips to collect it.

Adult learning and education have played a crucial role in empowering the group to tackle local environmental issues. The members have even started a small tree nursery, intending to sell native tree seedlings to community members at reasonable prices. They are also saving up to buy an agro-waste briquette machine to enhance their production capabilities and ensure the project's long-term sustainability.

To build on the achievements of projects like KOB, the government and other stakeholders need to invest more in community education on environmental issues. Supporting the use of energy-saving stoves and solar lighting would reduce the pressure on forests for wood fuel. Strengthening these community-led efforts is vital for building resilience against climate change and promoting sustainable development.