Editor
Citizens have been urged to set aside a small portion of their land for environmental conservation to benefit future generations.
This appeal was made by Banobi Herbert, the Executive Director of the African Community Conservation and Tourism Research Resource Center (ACTREC), during a community-driven initiative in Nyakishojea Cell, Kyeshero Parish, Kyeshero Sub-county, Kanungu District. The initiative aimed to address the dangers stemming from environmental neglect and destruction.
Banobi highlighted research indicating that if every responsible citizen designates a piece of land capable of supporting at least 50 natural trees, the nation could significantly enhance the lives of millions of Ugandans in the future. He elaborated that these conserved trees would improve air quality, provide oxygen, conserve water, preserve soil and animal life, and stabilize the climate.
Supporting Banobi’s call, the Member of Parliament for Kinkizi West, James Rugi Kaberuka, donated local trees, including Prunus africana (omumba) and Warburgia ugandensis (omwiha). Kaberuka noted that these herbs are among the best multi-medicinal plants.
Prunus africana, for instance, is used in treating prostate issues, while hot and cold decoctions from the leaves and stem barks of Warburgia ugandensis are traditionally used to treat tooth decay, asthma, and bronchitis.
Additionally, when combined with Zanthoxylum usambarense, Warburgia ugandensis can treat malaria, upper respiratory tract infections, tooth decay, and sore gums.
