By Obed Kithende
Religious institutions in Kasese District have raised concern over poor environmental practices, citing failure by communities to manage garbage, plant trees, and protect water bodies.
The concerns were voiced during the launch of a diocesan tree-planting campaign at Uganda Martyrs Nyakasanga Catholic Church in Nyamwamba Division.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kasese, is part of preparations for the 2026 Uganda Martyrs’ Day and aligns with the environmental call Laudato Si’ by Pope Francis.
The Bishop of Kasese Diocese, Francis Aquirinus Kibira, expressed concern over encroachment on water bodies and vegetation on the Rwenzori Mountains.
He cited observations from Kayanja Landing Site in Nyakiyumbu Sub-county, where plastic waste has affected water levels, pushing them closer to settlements.
Kibira warned that such practices could accelerate climate change and lead to disasters, urging communities to embrace proper waste management, tree planting, and protection of natural resources.
Also speaking, the Bishop of the South Rwenzori Diocese, Nason Baluku, revealed that the Anglican Church now requires parents to plant trees before their children can receive baptism, as part of environmental conservation efforts.
Kasese Municipal Senior Environmental Officer Evelyn Mugume cautioned against wetland encroachment and soil degradation, while Anyasio Mbusa encouraged planting fruit trees for both environmental and economic benefits.
