NPA told to incorporate tree planting into national plans

MUHAMAD MATOVU

The deputy chief justice Alphonse Owiny Dollo has decried the cutting down of trees , calling upon the National Planning Authority to incorporate tree planting in their general plan

He made the comments during the inauguration of the new board of the National Planning Authority,an event that took place at the High Court in Kampala

He said Uganda has 40 million people whose capacity needs full utilisation especially in wake of the growing threat to the environment

"There are positive hard laws and negative soft laws. There is something that you do for your own good for instance vaccination. It's a painful thing but have to do it," he said.

He urged the authority to sensitise the public to plant at least 2000 trees.

"If you plant those trees,imagine the impact to our environment"he said

Meanwhile the new board chairperson, Prof Pamela Mbabazi affirmed that they shall lead the country in developing the third five-year development plan and the 10 year national development plan.

She explained that through the process, NPA will seek active participation of the citizens across the country.

Dr Joseph Muvawala the executive director of NPA said the board will perform its mandate of approving all decisions of the authority.

Lydia Wanyota a member explained that one of the emphasis of National Planning Authority is industrialisation of the country so that the country can meet middle income status target, fight poverty but also position Uganda to become competitive within the region and internationally.

Prof Pamela Mbabazi was appointed as the new board chair replacing Dr Kisamba Mugerwa.

Other board members are: Dr Ivan Lule ,Ms Lydia Wanyoto and Prof Enos Kiremire.