The Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to take the lead in environmental conservation by planting trees to combat the effects of climate change.
She cited the recent high temperatures and humidity levels across the country as clear evidence of the worsening climate crisis.
“In the past few weeks, you must have experienced the high temperatures and humidity in various parts of the country. This is a reminder that climate change is real. Unless we, as leaders, take deliberate mitigating measures, we remain at risk,” Among said.
She urged each of the 556 MPs in the 11th Parliament to plant at least 1,000 trees, a move that, if implemented, would result in over half a million new trees and significantly boost afforestation efforts.
“I want to urge leaders to be an example to others and do our best to conserve the environment,” she added.
Among also acknowledged the need for greater efforts to address environmental degradation, recognizing Beatrice Anywar, the Minister of State for Environment, for her long-standing activism in forest conservation.
Uganda continues to grapple with deforestation, wetland encroachment, and erratic weather patterns, all of which threaten livelihoods and biodiversity.
Among’s call aligns with broader national and global efforts to mitigate climate change through reforestation and environmental protection.
With MPs leading the way, the initiative could inspire communities across the country to take responsibility for preserving the environment.
The challenge now lies in ensuring the campaign moves beyond rhetoric to sustained action.