Office of the Vice President Resettlement Division Permanent Secretary, Mavis Nkomeshya says Government has taken a firm stance on environmental protection as an essential pillar of national development agenda. 

Ms Nkomeshya notes that for this reason, the Government has revised the resettlement policy to include environment and climate change as a cross-cutting issue.

Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Resettlement Division and Vivo Energy in Kanakantapa Resettlement scheme, Ms Nkomeshya reiterated the importance of tree planting in mitigating adverse effects of climate change. 

She explained that the signing of the MOU marks a significant milestone in fostering sustainable human settlements especially in Resettlement schemes.

Ms Nkomeshya added that the Resettlement division in the Vice President’s office has prioritised Resettlements as productive hubs through the integration of sustainable land use practice in the schemes. 

“As part of this programme, we are embarking on a tree planting initiative that will see the establishment of over 1,000 trees within the Resettlement scheme, these trees will not only contribute to increased forest cover, but will provide alternative livelihoods to settlers through agroforestry,” she said. 

She explained that the country has just experienced the worst drought in recent history that affected over six million people. 

She urged other stakeholders to work together with Government to build a resilient and sustainable settlements that enhance both human wellbeing and environmental sustainability 

And Vivo Energy Managing Director, Edward Walugembe said Vivo energy is dedicated to protecting the environment, improving livelihoods and creating resilient communities. 

He explained that the signing of the MOU demonstrates the collective commitment to sustainable development, environmental restoration and community Empowerment.

“Through this initiative, we are planting Macadamia and citrus trees to restore the Kanakantapa ecological Corridor, this initiative fits within our green initiative programme which focuses on climate restoration,” he said. 

Mr Walugembe stated that the partnership not only promotes environmental conservation but also supports communities with training.

He encouraged the people of Kanakantapa to embrace the opportunity and take ownership of the tree planting to promote resilience and sustainability for generations to come.