The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Force (UPDF) Air Force has planted over 12,000 trees at Kwewanga Forest Reserve in Nkumba as part of this year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations.
The event was officiated by the Senior Presidential Advisor on the Environment, H.E. Dr. Gilbert Bukenya, who commended the UPDF for supporting Uganda’s development initiatives.
Dr. Bukenya emphasised the importance of collective action in the fight against deforestation and wetland destruction.
“Like many other wars fought and won, by working together and putting our nation’s interests before self, we shall also win the war against deforestation and preserve our wetlands,” he said.
He urged the UPDF to use its platforms to spread awareness about the importance of tree planting, warning that the destruction of forests has reached alarming levels, leading to the disappearance of indigenous tree species.
Brig Gen Richard Rubongoya, the Director of Human Resource Management – Air Force reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to environmental conservation.
“We remain dedicated to securing a healthy environment and will continue with this tradition,” he said, promising further efforts in afforestation and environmental protection.
Tarehe Sita, the annual celebration of the UPDF’s founding, is marked by various community service activities.
These include environmental clean-ups, free medical care, and the renovation of schools and hospitals, demonstrating the military’s continued commitment to national development.
