The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), in the Eastern DRC-North Kivu, spearheaded the launch of planting 300,000 assorted tree species in an effort to boost nature conservation.
The initiative is motivated by growing apprehensions regarding the widespread deterioration of trees and land covers within the vicinity of UPDF’s jurisdiction and its adjacent areas. Failure to address this issue in a timely manner is anticipated to have adverse implications for the climate in the future.
According to Colonel Michael Walaka Hyeroba, the Contingent Commander of the UPDF, under the East African Community Region Force (EACRF), the campaign is part of the UPDF’s efforts to fight against the rampant environmental degradation and climate change in the province of Rutshuru-North Kivu.
“The tree planting campaign was launched at the UPDF contingent headquarters in Nyongera, Kiwanjaon, on August 21 and will be rolled out to the entire UPDF areas of responsibility, Bunagana, Tshengerero, and Mabenga,” Hyeroba said.
He added that the exercise is one of UPDF’s domestic traditions of keeping the environment green and free from degradation, and that it’s equally the role of the force to protect the environment.
“The trees planted included eucalyptus, gravera, jackfruit, mangoes, and pawpaw, among other species. The UPDF has secured at least 300,000 various types of trees and fruits and has distributed them to the soldiers for planting,” Hyeroba said.
“It is therefore a concern to EACRF that we preserve the ecosystem so as to address the predicaments of global warming’s effects and to promote the betterment of climate in the region,” Hyeroba added.
Hyeroba also called upon the soldiers and officers from all units, heads of departments, and component commanders to take full responsibility for ensuring that the trees grow under all conditions.
