Kasese District, Partners Join Forces in Massive Tree Planting Campaign
In an effort to address the persistent challenges posed by climate change, Kasese District authorities, in cooperation with various partners, have initiated a substantial campaign to plant ten million trees along the slopes of Mountain Rwenzori. The region has been grappling with the adverse impacts of climate change, including recurring floods, which have resulted in property damage, displacement, and loss of lives.
These environmental setbacks are primarily attributed to extensive deforestation, particularly in the hilly areas of the Rwenzori Mountains. The initiative aims to counter these issues by increasing forest cover.
During the launch of the Kasese Forestry Conservation Program, Ms. Virginia Ssemakula, the Manager of Energy, Environment, and Climate Change at Equity Bank-Uganda, emphasized the importance of tree planting in the battle against climate change. She mentioned that Equity Bank, in collaboration with Million Trees International, is actively involved in implementing the program, which focuses on planting and nurturing a minimum of 7,000 trees on Rwangende Hill in Kasese Municipality.
Ms. Ssemakula stressed the urgency for the local community to embrace tree planting as a crucial measure to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in the region. She noted that many schools rely on firewood for cooking, resulting in increased expenses and further deforestation.
Mr. Jibril Semakura Owomugisha, the Chief Executive Officer at Million Trees International, highlighted the strategic importance of natural forest cover in enhancing local tourism initiatives and improving scenic beauty in Kasese Municipality.
Mr. Benson Kule Baritazaale, the Chairperson of Kasese Tourism Investors Forum (KTIF), emphasized the significance of tree planting and growth initiatives as the district embarks on a 10-million tree planting campaign. He urged every resident to plant at least five trees every rainy season to support this ambitious endeavor.
The Kasese Forestry Conservation Program focuses on cultivating indigenous tree species such as Spathodea, Mahogany, Maesopsis, Afrizelia, Warbugia Ugandensis, Prunus Africanus, Musambya, and Terminalia on 50 acres of land on Rwangende Hill in Nyamwamba Division. The program aims to enhance the local environment, promote tourism, and combat the effects of climate change.
