Who we are
A Ugandan organisation, rooted in the landscapes it serves.
Joint Effort to Save the Environment (JESE) is a leading Ugandan non-governmental organisation committed to working with communities to sustainably manage natural resources while improving livelihoods and building resilience to climate change.
Since its establishment in 1993, JESE has worked alongside rural communities, local governments, civil society organisations, research institutions and development partners to promote inclusive, people-centred development.
Over the past three decades, JESE has evolved into a respected national organisation implementing integrated programmes in climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, sustainable food systems, water and sanitation, youth employment, and policy advocacy.
Today, JESE continues to champion locally led development by combining community knowledge, scientific innovation and strategic partnerships to address some of Uganda's most pressing development challenges.
Our history
Established in 1993, JESE was founded in response to the increasing degradation of natural resources and the growing need to improve rural livelihoods through sustainable environmental management. What began as a community-based environmental initiative has grown into a nationally recognised development organisation with over 30 years of experience.
Throughout its journey, JESE has remained committed to working directly with communities, ensuring that local people are at the centre of planning, implementation, monitoring and learning. The organisation has expanded from environmental conservation to a broader integrated development approach encompassing climate resilience, food systems, water security, youth employment, enterprise development, research, innovation and policy influence.
“For over three decades, JESE has demonstrated that sustainable development is achieved when communities are supported to become custodians of their natural resources.”
At a glance
