Kitgum mayoral candidates pledge to protect the environment

11 January 2026, 2:11 pm

By Otim Moses

At least eight aspiring candidates contesting the mayoralty of Kitgum Municipality have unveiled manifestos emphasising 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 kilometres. He warned that failure to act now could severely damage 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 supporters in Hilltop Cell, Pandwong Division, he said his environmental plan goes beyond tree planting to include the protection of 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 that garbage in Kitgum Municipality is collected promptly. In cases of delay, he said the municipality would contract private companies to manage waste collection, keeping the environment clean and free from toxic materials.

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

Meanwhile, Hon. Oyoo Moris Santo, Chairperson of Pager Division and also a mayoral contender, said his manifesto prioritises 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 more 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 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 candidates contesting the mayoralty of Kitgum Municipality are 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).