The Rotary Club of Kabale, in partnership with the South Western Regional Development Forum, launched a tree planting campaign on May 22, 2024, aiming to conserve the environment in the Greater Kigezi and Ankole districts. The launch took place at Mwisi Primary School in Mwisi Parish, Kitumba Sub County, where 370 trees were planted, including fruit, shade, and timber-producing varieties.
Speaking at the event, Mesharch Katusiimeh, Vice Chairperson of the South Western Regional Development Forum, emphasized the importance of the initiative. He noted that this tree planting drive, which began with the Rotary Club of Kabale, will expand to cover the Greater Kigezi and Ankole districts with support from GEP President Ninsiima Evelyn Kikafunda. Katusiimeh highlighted the environmental challenges resulting from deforestation and urged the public to prioritize planting trees before cutting any down to ensure environmental sustainability for the next 5-10 years.
Karuma Charles, a member of the Rotary Club of Kabale and an aspiring Chairperson, reiterated the importance of tree planting. He mentioned that the trees planted were a collaborative effort between the Rotary Club of Kabale and the South Western Regional Development Forum. Charles challenged the public to plant as many trees as possible to improve the environment.
Canon Hilary Byoruganda, a Board Member of the South Western Regional Development Forum, stated that environmental conservation is a key focus of their organization. Byoruganda explained that the South Western Regional Development Forum, which is an initiative of local governments, includes all LC5 chairpersons, district CAOs, speakers, and planners within the Greater Kigezi and Ankole districts. The forum’s focus areas include agro-industrialization, tourism, climate and mineral developments, and water management.
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