By Ritah Atukwatse,
LUWEERO
Buganda Kingdom this week marked its annual Environment Week with nationwide activities aimed at raising awareness on environmental conservation. The celebrations peaked on June 10th in Buleemezi, where the 2nd Deputy Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Robert Wagwa Nsibirwa led a symbolic tree-planting exercise and called on the youth to become activists.
Owek. Wagwa Nsibirwa was representing the Katikkiro Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga at the launch of the environment week. He planted two trees during the ceremony and urged scholars, particularly school-going children, to take on the role of environment activists.
“After here, plant a tree whether at home or at school,” he emphasized, reminding attendees of their personal responsibility in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.
Prominent leaders joined in the week’s activities, with Luwero district Woman MP, Brendah Nabukenya, raising concerns over continued deforestation. She called for increased sensitization of local communities, especially those relying on firewood and charcoal for fuel.
“Cutting down trees for firewood and charcoal is destroying our environment. We must educate the public on alternative sources of energy,” she said.
The event also drew attention to broader environmental issues such as poor road infrastructure and plastic pollution. Hon. Nabukenya encouraged Ugandans to avoid using polythene bags, advocating instead for reusable food containers. “Plastics are non-degradable and harmful to our environment,” she warned.
The minister of Environment for Buganda Kingdom, Owek. Mariam Mayanja Nkalubo echoed this call, urging people to stop burning plastic waste such as bottles because they pollute the environment.
“Burning plastics releases smoke that pollutes our air,” she said, stressing the importance of responsible waste disposal.
The United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) Makerere and Kyambogo Chapters also took part in the celebrations, participating in the community.
