Mukono Diocese, in partnership with Sinza Hope Givers, has launched a significant initiative to plant 50,000 fruit tree seedlings across four districts—Mukono, Buikwe, Kayunga, and Buvuma. The program, inaugurated by Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo at the diocesan headquarters in Mukono Municipality, aims to address environmental degradation caused by the loss of natural forests and wetlands due to urbanization.
Bishop Kagodo emphasized that the selected fruit trees not only contribute to environmental restoration but also enhance nutrition. The planting will extend to schools, churches, and selected health units, strategically utilizing available spaces to counteract land encroachment.
The initiative responds to the dual challenge of environmental degradation and encroachment on church lands. By converting church land into fruitful orchards, the project not only serves ecological goals but also safeguards against unauthorized land use.
The retired bishop of Central Buganda diocese, Bp. Jackson Matovu, commended the initiative, considering it timely. Reflecting on his childhood experiences in Mukono district, he lamented the disappearance of once-abundant forests. Matovu also expressed concern over the connection between deforestation and flooding in areas like Namanve on the Kampala-Jinja highway, Mukono town, Lwera on Masaka road, and parts of Wakiso district.
Sinza Hope Givers director, Cuthbert Waira, outlined their comprehensive approach, which includes not only planting trees but also educating Christians, students, and teachers about the benefits of tree planting. Waira emphasized the importance of understanding the drawbacks of deforestation and announced plans to initiate environment clubs in schools.
The campaign aligns with the calls for environmental restoration by influential figures like the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi, and the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu. As the initiative gains momentum, over 4,000 trees have already been planted, with a focus on maximizing the impact during the upcoming rainy season.
