The Executive Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Dr. Barirega Akankwasa, has urged Ugandans to step up tree planting efforts to restore the country’s forests and safeguard the environment.
Dr. Akankwasa made the call during a meeting with journalists and editors under the Uganda Editors Guild, held at Ndejje in Wakiso District. The engagement aimed to strengthen collaboration between NEMA and the media to promote responsible environmental reporting and raise public awareness about conservation.
“Ugandans need to increase tree planting to help restore our forests that have been destroyed over the years. This is the only way we can protect our environment and secure a sustainable future,” Dr. Akankwasa said.
He noted that Uganda has made significant progress in forest restoration, with forest cover rising to 13.9%, up from 8% in previous years. “Our restoration programs are yielding results. Forest destruction has reduced, and we are now seeing an increase in forest cover across the country,” he added.
Dr. Akankwasa also cautioned against illegal wetland encroachment, warning that some wealthy individuals entice locals to sell land in wetlands, only to develop it illegally. “We must resist such practices to protect our natural resources,” he said.
The NEMA boss encouraged journalists to use their platforms to sensitise the public about environmental protection. “Journalists play a critical role in helping the public understand the importance of protecting the environment. Let’s work together to promote responsible reporting,” he emphasised.
Echoing the call, Uganda Editors Guild Chairperson Daniel Kalinaki urged editors and reporters to collaborate to ensure environmental stories are well-researched and reach the public in the right context.
Representing Next Media, Dalton Kaweesa appreciated NEMA for engaging with the media. “Together, we can ensure a clean and sustainable environment for all Ugandans,” he said.
According to NEMA, Uganda’s forest cover, which had dropped to 8%, has now steadily increased to 9.3%, ranking the country first in Africa and third globally in forest restoration efforts.
Dr. Akankwasa concluded by calling on every Ugandan to actively participate in tree planting and environmental conservation initiatives. “Environmental protection is everyone’s responsibility. Let’s all play our part in planting trees and preserving nature for future generations,” he said.