Maj Gen Richard Otto, Commander of the Mountain Division, launched a tree planting campaign at the Division’s headquarters in Muhoti Barracks, Fort Portal City, Kabarole district, today.
The initiative aims to support the government’s strategic programme to enhance the environment. The campaign, which commenced within the barracks, targets the planting of 10,000 trees in its inaugural phase.
Maj Gen Otto, also Commander of Operation Shujaa, urged UPDF officers to plant trees in their areas of deployment, leaving a lasting legacy of protecting and promoting a safe and friendly environment.
Col Muwonge, Deputy Division Commander, who has been tasked with overseeing the project’s implementation, encouraged officers to embrace the initiative with enthusiasm, highlighting its significance in mitigating environmental challenges in the Rwenzori region. The region, which is home to several rivers, including Nyamwamba, Mubuku, Rwimi, and Lamia, has faced riverbank bursts, floods, and landslides due to human activities, resulting in loss of life, displacement, and disruption of livelihoods.
Tree planting is a crucial factor in mitigating soil erosion and promoting environmental sustainability. The launch was attended by officers from the Mountain Division, and the project will be implemented across all Brigades under the Division before being extended to civilian communities.
