In a bid to combat environmental degradation and address the worsening effects of climate change in the Kigezi region, the Rotary Club of Kabale City, in collaboration with the South Western Rural Development Foundation (SWRDF), has launched an ambitious 1000-tree planting initiative at the National Teachers College (NTC) Kabale.
The event was attended by local leaders, members the Rotary Club and representatives from of SWRDF, with the Rotary Club of Kabale City President, Rtn. Wycliff Rushaju, represented by President Elect Dr. Robert Mugarura. Dr. Mugarura highlighted Rotary’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, “We are not only improving the air quality and conserving nature, but we are also securing a green future for generations to come. Every tree planted today is a step towards creating a healthier, more sustainable environment.”
P.E Dr. Mugarura also emphasized that this tree-planting initiative is part of a larger goal set by the Rotary Club, which aims to plant 10,000 trees by the end of the year. “The 1,000-tree initiative at NTC Kabale marks the beginning of a broader effort that will continue throughout the year,” he said.
Canon Hillary Byoruganda, a board member of SWRDF representing the private sector, echoed these sentiments, stressing the urgent need to take action against environmental degradation. He praised the collaboration between Rotary and SWRDF, noting that the 1,000 trees distributed to the NTC community will not only benefit the ecosystem but also provide educational opportunities. “Our partnership with Rotary Club aims to address environmental degradation. We encourage the community to support such efforts as they will have lasting benefits for both the ecosystem and the people,” Byoruganda remarked.
The community of NTC Kabale welcomed the initiative. Principal Annet Komunda expressed her appreciation, noting that the tree planting comes at a critical time when the effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced. “The rains we rely on should have started by now, but we’ve seen none. It’s clear that climate change is affecting us all, and this initiative is an important step toward preserving our environment,” Komunda stated. She also commended the Rotary Club and SWRDF for selecting NTC Kabale as the site for such an impactful project, recognizing the initiative’s potential to educate students on environmental conservation.
While officiating at the function, Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, President of Green Environment Promotion (GEP) and General Secretary of SWRDF, underscored the need for urgent reforestation to combat climate change. “Climate change is real. The lack of rain this season is alarming and threatens both our crops and livelihoods. We must take responsibility and engage in tree planting and sustainable land management to restore ecological balance,” Kikafunda emphasized.
Kikafunda also announced SWRDF’s plans to expand similar tree-planting initiatives to other institutions and communities across the Kigezi region. She called for collective action, urging both individuals and organizations to actively participate in addressing the environmental crisis.
The launch saw the active participation of about 50 Rotary Club of Kabale City members, who joined hands with NTC staff in planting various indigenous and fruit trees across the campus grounds. This initiative aligns with Rotary International’s “Supporting the Environment” campaign, a recently added area of focus for the global organization.
As the first phase of the 1,000-tree project concludes, the organizers plan to expand the initiative to other schools and communities in Kabale District, ensuring wider participation and a greater environmental impact.
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