LIRA CITY, October 16, 2025 — The Rotary Club of Lira Metropolitan [RCLM] in Lira has begun distributing tree seedlings to primary and secondary schools across the Lango Subregion, in a partnership aimed at purifying the air and providing windbreaks within school premises and the surrounding communities.
Among the schools that have so far received the tree seedlings are Adyel Boarding Primary School and Lango College in Lira City.
Ben Boniface Olanya, President of RCLM, said the environmental initiative also aims to provide a safer and more conducive learning environment for students.
He added that the trees may later serve as a source of building materials for schools.
“We are doing this to conserve our environment, protect schools from strong winds, provide shade for learners, and supply poles for future construction needs,” said Olanya.
He noted that the distribution of seedlings will continue, with the goal of reaching over 100 schools in the Lango Subregion.
“We want to extend this initiative to many schools across Lango, our target is to cover more than 100 schools,” he added.
Robert Okwir, Head of the Agriculture Department at Lango College, who received the seedlings alongside students, expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club for the donation, stating that mature trees will act as effective windbreaks in addition to purifying the air.
“I am very pleased with the Rotary Club of Lira Metropolitan for providing us with these tree seedlings. Trees play a crucial role in our daily lives,” Okwir said.
Lango College received a total of 1,160 eucalyptus seedlings, which will be planted by the school’s Green School Club. The club has also planted fruit-bearing trees such as pawpaw, avocado, and jackfruit.
Raphael Ongom, Head Prefect of Lango College, pledged to ensure the seedlings are well protected so they grow to benefit both the school and the wider community.
“We are very happy to receive the seedlings. I will make sure they are well taken care of so they can serve their intended purpose, not only within Lango College but across Lira City,” said Ongom.
Fred Doi, a member of the Lango College Board, encouraged students to take the message of environmental conservation back to their homes, highlighting how tree planting can protect the environment and generate income for households.
Leonard Otika, Lira City Environment Officer, said the City Council is partnering with the Rotary Club of Lira Metropolitan to ensure that more trees are planted in schools.
He urged school communities to look after the seedlings properly, particularly as the dry season approaches.
“We are working hand in hand with the Rotary Club of Lira Metropolitan to distribute trees to schools. Our goal is to plant over 100,000 trees to combat climate change, enhance the beauty of school environments, and encourage sustainability,” said Otika.
“We’re urging schools to take care of these seedlings so they don’t dry out or get damaged by careless handling.”
Otika emphasised that tree planting offers numerous benefits, including the potential to generate income for schools, provide firewood for cooking, and contribute to long-term environmental sustainability.
https://thecooperator.news/farmers-urged-to-preserve-cashew-trees-as-soroti-factory-nears/
Buy your copy of thecooperator magazine from one of our country-wide vending points or an e-copy on emag.thecooperator.news
-
-
-
-
