On March 23, 2023, residents of Kyaka II Reugee Settlement came together at the Sweswe primary playground to commemorate a day organized by various partners including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), NSAMIZI, OXFAM, Jese, PWJ, Caritas and many others. The event was held to mark water and Environment week .
The theme of World Forest Day was “Forests and Health,” which aimed to raise awareness of the important role that forests play in promoting human health and well-being. The theme of Water Day was “Accelerating Change to Solve the Water and Sanitation Crisis,” which highlighted the urgent need to address the global water and sanitation crisis. Sanitation Week’s theme was “Sanitation and Hygiene for All, a Key to Disease Prevention,” emphasizing the critical importance of good sanitation and hygiene practices for preventing the spread of disease. Lastly, the theme of Environment Week was “Water and Environment for Climate Resilience,” which aimed to raise awareness about the importance of water resources and their impact on climate change.
Another activity that was done before the commemoration of the special day in Kyaka II was a clean-up exercise in Byabakora 3 Village, which was carried out by partners and community members. The clean-up exercise aimed to promote environmental cleanliness and create awareness about the importance of keeping the environment clean and healthy.
Additionally, partners also undertook tree planting at Itambabiniga primary school. Each candidate planted a tree in the compound, which was a great initiative to promote environmental conservation and encourage the community to take an active role in protecting the environment.
Through these activities, the community was able to come together and work towards promoting environmental sustainability and creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. The preparations before the special day highlighted the importance of community participation and collaboration in addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainable development.
Sensitization on wetland protection in Lubimbili
Clean up exercise in Byabakora
Tree planting activity at Itambabiniga primary school
The day’s events included a range of programs such as exhibitions, entertainment, and speeches from various representatives. The Chairperson of RWC III gave remarks, as did a representative from the Subcounty. Additionally, representatives from partner organizations delivered remarks, including UNHCR and OPM, finally Important messages from the Kyegegwa District Senior Environment Officer.
The event was an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the importance of environment ,water and sanitation issues. Through a range of informative and entertaining activities, residents were able to learn more about the crucial role that forests and water play in promoting health and well-being, as well as the impact of these issues on climate change.
During the commemoration, the district senior environment officer, who was also the Guest of Honor, spoke to the community and partners about the importance of increasing tree coverage in the settlement and reducing deforestation. He urged the people to plant more trees and emphasized the role that trees play in protecting the environment and promoting a healthy ecosystem.
Mr. Nicholas, The Kyegegwa District Senior Environment Officer.
The officer also highlighted the need for proper sanitation and hygiene in the settlement. He informed the community and partners that the district does not have a lagoon where sewage can be disposed of, and as a result, there is a need to construct one. Proper sanitation and hygiene are essential for preventing the spread of diseases, and having a lagoon would go a long way in ensuring that the settlement is a healthy and safe place to live.
Overall, the officer’s remarks underscored the importance of environmental conservation and proper sanitation and hygiene practices in promoting health and well-being in the settlement. Through the construction of a lagoon and the planting of more trees, the community can work together to create a sustainable and healthy environment for all.
Photos: Pacific King/ Triple T / Enock M. / Let’s Help International-LHI
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