Rotarians plant over 4,000 medicinal, indigenous trees

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In a bid to protect the environment and support Uganda’s afforestation goals, the Rotary Club of Kampala Munyonyo has planted over 4,000 medicinal and indigenous trees in Sentema, Wakiso district.

Specioza Kiwanuka, the club’s director of project services, highlighted the importance of planting indigenous tree species.

“We are planting different species of trees, many of which are indigenous because this is an afforestation initiative. Some of the trees are medicinal, and when they grow, they will not only protect the environment but also benefit the surrounding communities,” Kiwanuka said.

Some of the members of Rotary Club of Kampala Munyonyo displaying different species of trees in Sentema before planting them. (Photo by Violet Nabatanzi)

Under the Centennial Project, Rotary International District 9214 mandated each member to plant as many trees as the years remaining before the organisation reaches 100 years.

The Rotarians praised the National Forestry Authority (NFA) for providing tree seedlings to support their initiative.

Kiwanuka noted that their tree-planting efforts are expanding, with activities also being introduced at Kyazanga Primary School.

Hannington Segirinya, the assistant governor of the Rotary Club of Kampala Munyonyo, revealed that their initial target was to plant 50,000 trees.

“We initially had a target of planting 50,000 trees, but thanks to our partnership with NFA, which stepped in to provide additional seedlings, we will now be planting 100,000 trees,” he said.

He commended Rotarians for their dedication to environmental conservation.

“The Rotarians leave their homes and comfort zones to come here to Sentema and plant trees because they care about the environment and the people of Uganda. Rotary clubs in Tanzania and other clubs are also planting trees every single day,” Segirinya said.

Martin Mwodi, director of plantation development at NFA, reaffirmed their commitment to a greener environment.

He noted that NFA has collaborated with various partners over the years to advance afforestation efforts, making significant progress.

He commended the Rotary Club of Kampala Munyonyo for its active involvement, assuring them of continued support from NFA.

“This is not just a Rotary cause; it is a cause for everyone,” Mwodi said. “Our mandate primarily covers Central Forest Reserves, which are protected government areas. However, due to increasing pressure from people seeking firewood, timber, and charcoal, we have decided to extend our efforts beyond this by promoting tree planting in local landscapes. We enable communities to grow their own trees for sustainable use, thereby reducing pressure on natural forests,” he explained.