BY JOACKIM KULE
Maj. Gen. Richard Otto, the Commander for the Mountain Division has launched a tree planting campaign that aimed at augmenting the government’s strategic program of conserving the environment.
The campaign which was launched today at the Division headquarters in Muhooti Barracks, Fort-portal Tourism City in Kabarole district, targets the planting of at least 10,000 trees in the first phase.
Maj. Gen. Otto, who also doubles as the Commander for the Operation Shujja in the Eastern DRC, urged the UPDF officers to plant trees wherever they are deployed so that they leave a legacy of protecting and promoting a safe and friendly environment.
The Deputy Division Commander, Col. Paul Muwonge, who has been tasked to oversee the implementation of the project, encouraged officers to embrace it with enthusiasm, highlighting its importance in mitigating environmental challenges in the Rwenzori sub-region.
The region, which is home to several rivers including Nyamwamba, Mubuku, Rwimi, and Lamia, has faced river bank bursts, floods, and landslides due to human activities leading to loss of lives, displacement of people and disruption of livelihoods.
According to him, tree planting is a crucial factor in mitigating soil erosion and promoting environmental sustainability.
The launch was attended by officers of the Mountain Division, and the project will be implemented in all Brigades under the Division before being rolled out to civilian communities. ENDS