Environmental conservation: Over 30,000 trees planted across Lango in June
The initiative forms part of Caritas Lira, and the Catholic Diocese’s annual campaign marking World Environment Day [celebrated on June 5], with a particular focus on tree planting
LIRA CITY July 4, 2025 –– In a major push for environmental conservation, Caritas Lira, a not–for–profit oragnisation, has planted a total of 31,000 trees across the Lango Subregion districts of Oyam, Dokolo, Alebtong, Otuke, and Lira City during the month of June 2025.
The initiative forms part of Caritas Lira, and the Catholic Diocese’s annual campaign marking World Environment Day [celebrated on June 5], with a particular focus on tree planting. Of the 31,000 seedlings, 20,000 were planted in the sub-counties of Aber [Oyam], Okwalogwen, Amwoma, Bata [Dokolo], Abako, Amugo [Alebtong] and Alango [Otuke]. A further 1,100 seedlings were distributed within Lira City.
The seedlings included a variety of species, such as eucalyptus, pine, mahogany, and musizi, as well as fruit trees like citrus, guava, avocado, and jackfruit.
Dorcus Achola, an agronomist with Caritas Lira, explained that tree planting is an annual activity central to their June environmental campaign.
“Environmental protection is a key outcome area for us. As part of our World Environment Day activities, from 1st to 25th June, we planted over 20,000 trees across the Lango sub-region and 1,100 around the city centre and its suburbs,” Achola said.
To ensure sustainability and community involvement, Caritas Lira works directly with farmers, supported by Community-Based Animators [CBAs].
“We use a hands-on approach. When training farmers, we don’t just talk—we dig the holes with them and supervise the planting. Our CBAs later follow up to monitor progress, which encourages community participation,” she added.
The environmental protection and livelihood initiatives are supported by Caritas Norway, in partnership with Caritas Uganda.
Tree planting to combat climate change
Leonard Otika, the Environment Officer for Lira City, acknowledged the continued challenges the city faces with tree planting, waste management, and climate-related issues. He noted that tree planting is a practical step toward addressing these problems.
“We’re experiencing more frequent heatwaves and flooding due to blocked drainage systems. Planting trees will help mitigate climate change by reducing carbon emissions and acting as a natural carbon sink,” Otika said.
However, he stressed the need for greater public awareness and behavioural change.
“We need massive sensitisation campaigns. Behaviour change must be encouraged alongside budget allocations for seedlings and implementation. Communities need to understand that while some of these efforts have costs, they bring long-term environmental and health benefits.”
Promoting fruit trees for sustainability and nutrition
During belated World Environment Day celebrations held at Lira City Mayor’s Garden, residents were encouraged to prioritise fruit tree planting—both for environmental benefits and livelihood improvement.
Highlighted species included avocado, soursop, guava, jackfruit, mango, and orange trees. These efforts target not just community members but also institutions, particularly schools.
“Fruit trees are multifunctional,” Otika explained. “Beyond acting as carbon sinks and windbreakers, they also improve diet, reduce hypertension, and generate income.”
He noted that many fruits currently sold in Lira are sourced from outside districts or even countries such as South Africa, Kenya, South Sudan, and Arua, which he views as a missed opportunity.
“We want these fruits grown locally. There’s no reason why Lira cannot be a leading producer of mangoes or avocados,” he said.
Otika urged educational institutions with limited space to seek additional land for planting.
“Schools like VH Public School, St Katherine SS, Lango College, and Dr Obote College have space to plant trees. Others should consider acquiring land to participate meaningfully in this initiative,” he advised.
Church support for green schools
Bishop Sanctus Linus Wanok of Lira Catholic Diocese echoed the call, particularly to schools, to embrace fruit tree planting as a dual measure of beautification and education.
“Soil erosion often starts in our compounds. Let’s plant fruit trees in school grounds and have pupils care for them. They’ll serve as living lessons, ornamental features, and valuable sources of nutrition,” he said.
The bishop further urged city authorities to offer technical guidance on appropriate tree species for different environments.
“With the right knowledge, communities can plant the right trees in the right places, ensuring long-term impact,” he concluded.
The June tree-planting campaign is a testament to the power of grassroots action and collaboration in tackling the urgent climate crisis and building sustainable livelihoods in Uganda’s northern region.
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