Iganga, Uganda: The Central Busoga Diocese has launched a robust environmental campaign dubbed the “Environment Climate Call to Action Movement” aimed at promoting tree planting, public cleanliness, and responsible environmental stewardship across the sub-region.
Led by Rt. Rev. Patrick Wakula, Bishop of Central Busoga Diocese, the campaign was officially launched on Friday at St. Peter’s Church, Kasokoso in Iganga Municipality, in partnership with the municipal council and Uganda Forestry Authority (UFA). The initiative is part of a wider Church of Uganda directive issued by Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.
At least 5,000 trees, some donated by UFA, are expected to be planted under the program, with more seedlings distributed to members of the public.
During the launch, tree planting was conducted in various locations across Iganga town, accompanied by a town-wide clean-up exercise that drew participation from local leaders, school children, and residents.
“This initiative transcends religion and politics. God gave mankind the responsibility to care for creation. We must reclaim that divine duty,” Bishop Wakula said, referencing Genesis 1:11 as he urged all churches to integrate tree planting into their functions.
The campaign also featured Dr. Veronica Mukyala, Principal of MUBS Jinja Campus, who led the cleaning team and emphasized the importance of public hygiene and eco-consciousness.
“We need to please God by taking care of the environment, not just as Anglicans but across all faiths. We must embrace eco-friendly businesses and stop tree destruction which worsens climate conditions,” Dr. Mukyala said.
Iganga Mayor Bamu Lulenzi warned residents against vandalizing planted trees, saying those caught would face the full force of the law. He praised the church for stepping up to fight environmental degradation.
NRM Iganga District Chairperson Hajji Walubi Abubakar also joined the call, pledging to actively support tree planting efforts and urging the community to safeguard the trees, especially within urban areas.
Rev. Can. Alfred Bolya of St. Peter’s Church revealed that over 6,000 tree seedlings are currently available at the church and urged community members to pick them for planting.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative anews platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp for realtime updates.
