Promoting environmental conservation: Bishop Odongo plants trees at Bethany Comprehensive SS
SOROTI CITY, June 24, 2025 –– The Bishop of Soroti Diocese, the Rt Rev. Kosea Odongo, recently led a tree-planting initiative at Bethany Comprehensive Secondary School in Soroti City’s East Division, as part of efforts to promote environmental conservation.
During the exercise, Bishop Odongo underscored the importance of protecting the environment, emphasising that conservation is an integral part of Christian stewardship.
He was joined by the Rev OS John Mark Haung Godia of the Archdiocese of Maseno West in Kenya, alongside school administrators and students. Together, they planted over 200 Eucalyptus trees on the school grounds. The initiative seeks to create a greener environment, reduce carbon emissions, and instil a sense of responsibility in young people.
Speaking at the event, Odongo highlighted the vital role of trees in mitigating climate change, providing shade, and supporting biodiversity.
“We are planting trees in memory of our sixth consecration anniversary. We realise that our calling is not only to preach the Gospel, but also to preserve and care for creation,” Odongo said.
He encouraged others to take similar actions, noting the importance of environmental stewardship as he prepares to mark his consecration anniversary.
He also pointed out that climate change affects everyone, and that one of the most effective ways to address it is by planting trees.
The bishop further urged people to incorporate tree planting into significant life events such as birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.
He also advised students to make the most of their time on earth by growing, transforming, and developing themselves, reminding them that this is their only chance to do so.
Martin Okiria Obore, Director of Bethany Comprehensive SS, expressed his gratitude to Odongo for choosing the school as the site for the tree-planting event. He noted that the initiative aligns with the school’s efforts to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
“This is symbolic. As these trees grow, so too will our relationship with you, and the blessings upon our school,” Okiria said.
Rev Godfrey Obone, Education Coordinator for the Church of Uganda in Soroti Diocese, urged students to take care of the newly planted trees. He announced that each student would be assigned a tree to water and nurture.
“Each tree will be entrusted to a student who will be responsible for its care,” Rev Obone said.
Mariam Atimo, Assistant Head Girl at Bethany Comprehensive SS, thanked Odongo for his efforts to improve their learning environment, acknowledging the positive impact the trees will have on their school when they mature.
However, according to some environmental scientists, while eucalyptus trees can help with soil erosion control, provide alternative wood sources, and sequester carbon, they can also deplete soil nutrients, negatively impact water resources, and potentially suppress undergrowth due to allelopathic effects.
https://thecooperator.news/teso-college-aloet-set-to-plant-20000-trees-for-planting/
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