Today, Major General Richard Otto, the Commander of the Mountain Division, launched a tree planting campaign at the Division headquarters in Muhoti Barracks in Fort Portal City, Kabarole district to augment the government’s strategic program to improve the environment.
The campaign, which commenced within the barracks, targets planting 10,000 trees in its first phase.
Maj Gen Otto, also the Commander of Operation Shujaa, urged UPDF officers to plant trees wherever they are deployed, leaving a legacy of protecting and promoting a safe and friendly environment.
The Deputy Division Commander Colonel Muwonge, who has been tasked to oversee the implementation of the project, encouraged officers to embrace the project with enthusiasm, highlighting its importance in mitigating environmental challenges in the Rwenzori 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.
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.
