Fort Portal marks World Earth Day with cleanup and tree planting

28 April 2026, 6:23 pm

By Kaboha

Fort Portal City joined the rest of the world last week in commemorating World Earth Day 2026 on 22 April with a large-scale clean-up and tree-planting exercise aimed at promoting environmental conservation and responsible waste management.

The initiative, led by Afreya Golf Academy in partnership with Tooro Kingdom, Nyabamu Enterprises Ltd, the Ministry of Water and Environment, and Green Shero Ltd, among others, was held under the theme “Our City, Our Pride: The Tooro We Want.”

The four-hour activity began at 9:00 a.m., starting from the National Forestry Authority (NFA) offices in Boma. It was officially flagged off by the Bishop of Rwenzori Diocese, Reuben Kisembo. Participants collected plastic bottles and other solid waste, while also planting trees across selected areas of the city.

Speaking during the event, Isaiha Mwesige, Chief Executive Officer of the African Young Environmental Activist (AFRIYEA), emphasised the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment. He called on individuals, organisations, and government agencies to take deliberate and sustained action to address environmental challenges.

Mwesige noted that this year’s activities attracted a broad coalition of stakeholders, including Fort Portal City Council, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police, the business community, schools, and local residents, demonstrating growing public commitment to environmental protection.

The First Deputy Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Harriet Nyakake, urged citizens to actively participate in conservation efforts. She stressed that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, warning that the consequences of environmental degradation affect all living organisms in Tooro and beyond.

Meanwhile, Fort Portal City Mayor-elect Kintu Willy Muhanga pledged his administration’s support for the monthly city clean-up initiative spearheaded by Tooro Kingdom and its partners. He also raised concerns over the weak enforcement of existing environmental laws, promising stricter implementation once he assumes office.

The event concluded with renewed calls for continuous community engagement in keeping Fort Portal clean and green, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to building a more sustainable and environmentally responsible city.