Kitgum Mayoral Aspirants Pledge to Protect the Environment

11 January 2026, 2:11 pm

By Otim Moses

At least eight aspiring candidates contesting for the mayorship of Kitgum Municipality have unveiled manifestos focusing on environmental protection, with tree planting emerging as a key priority.

One of the aspirants, Mr. Komakech Geoffrey, a former employee of Kitgum District Local Government with 18 years of service, said research indicates that the dry season is extending by up to seven kilometers. He warned that failure to act now could severely affect the environment and lead to the drying up of water sources.

Mr. Komakech pledged to plant 100 trees in every government institution using the limited resources available to him as part of his plan to make Kitgum Municipality greener. Speaking to his supporters in Hilltop Cell, Pandwong Division, he said his environmental plan goes beyond tree planting to include protecting conservation areas such as Pager River. 

He added that beautifying the river would help attract more tourists to the municipality.

He further promised that, if elected, he would ensure garbage in Kitgum Municipality is collected promptly. In cases of delay, he said the municipality would contract private companies to handle waste collection to keep the environment clean and free from toxic waste.

Another aspirant, Hon. Komakech John Ogwok, the former Chairperson of Lamwo District Local Government, also pledged to protect the environment by planting trees and empowering nursery beds to raise more seedlings for planting across the municipality.

Meanwhile, Hon. Oyoo Moris Santo, the Chairperson of Pager Division and also a mayoral contender, said his manifesto prioritizes the construction of a sewerage system to manage waste in the municipality. He noted that proper waste management would help keep Kitgum clean and create a comfortable environment for visitors.

The incumbent mayor, His Worship Okwera Richard Ojara, said his administration has already implemented a tree-planting project targeting 5,000 trees annually, and he remains committed to supporting its continuation. He added that his government is working closely with the Natural Resources Department to beautify streets and public spaces within Kitgum Municipality.

Currently, the eight aspiring candidates for Kitgum Municipality mayoral seat include Mr. Komakech Geoffrey, Mr. Komakech John Ogwok, Mr. Onge Merino Lol (Independent), Hon. Ocean Raymond (NRM), Mr. Opoka Opika (DP), Mr. Oyoo Moris Santo (FDC), Mr. Walter Livingston Too Roma (Independent), and the incumbent His Worship Okwera Richard Ojara (Independent).