By Alfred Opio
The Woman Member of Parliament–elect for Pallisa District, Catherine Achola, has launched a district-wide tree planting campaign aimed at combating the effects of climate change and promoting environmental conservation.
The initiative was officially launched in Kibale County and is expected to gradually expand to other parts of the district, with households encouraged to actively participate in the exercise.
Households Required to Plant 10 Trees
Under the campaign, Achola has procured a variety of tree seedlings, including both fruit-bearing and non-fruit species, which will be distributed to communities across the district.
Each household is expected to plant at least ten tree seedlings as part of the effort to restore vegetation cover and improve environmental sustainability.
Speaking during the launch at Kibale Town Council, Achola said the initiative is intended to increase tree cover in areas where deforestation has left communities vulnerable to harsh weather conditions.
Trees to Help Protect Homes from Strong Winds
Achola explained that the shortage of trees in many parts of Pallisa District has contributed to the destruction of homes during strong winds and storms.
“Most parts of our district lack trees, and whenever strong winds occur, many houses are blown off or damaged. Planting trees will help protect our communities,” she said.
She added that trees provide several benefits to households, including food, medicine, shade, and firewood, making them an important resource for rural communities.
Residents Raise Concerns About Seedling Protection
Despite welcoming the initiative, some residents expressed concerns about the challenges involved in nurturing the seedlings after planting.
Charles Otoo, a resident of Kibale Town Council, noted that roaming animals could destroy the young plants.
“The project is good, but raising the seedlings is a challenge. Planting them is easy, but loitering animals in the area often destroy the young plants,” Otoo said.
Another resident, James Okanya from Agule Town Council, urged community members to support the campaign, citing the increasing impact of storms in the area.
“Our area is currently being affected by storms. If we plant more trees, they will help reduce the strength of the winds and protect our homes,” Okanya said.
RDC Warns Residents Against Neglecting the Project
Meanwhile, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Pallisa, Majid Dhikusooka, warned residents against neglecting the project after receiving the seedlings.
He said authorities will closely monitor the implementation of the initiative to ensure the seedlings are planted and properly cared for.
“Hon. Achola has invested a lot of money to purchase these seedlings. People should not take this project for granted because it is meant for their own benefit,” Dhikusooka said.
Boosting Climate Resilience in Pallisa
Local leaders believe the tree planting campaign will significantly increase tree cover across Pallisa District and help communities better withstand the effects of climate change.
The initiative is also expected to promote environmental conservation while improving livelihoods through fruit production and other tree-related benefits.
