By Agness Agilo

The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has called on the people of Lango to embrace proper disposal of plastic waste as a key step toward environmental conservation.

Bishop Wanok, who was the chief guest at the belated World Environment Day celebrations held on 25th June, 2025 at Mayor’s Garden in Lira City, urged communities to dispose of plastics responsibly to promote recycling and reduce environmental degradation. He stressed that both cultural and religious leaders are united in the fight against plastic pollution, which he described as “suffocating the earth.”

He applauded Mukwano Group of Companies and other actors for leading efforts in plastic waste collection and recycling. The Bishop also encouraged schools to plant fruit trees like avocado and urged households to grow flowers to prevent soil erosion, warning against the burning of grass which contributes to environmental dryness.

Lira City Environment Officer Leonard Otika said the city has rolled out several interventions including tree planting, improved waste management, and routine cleaning. He noted that the Church has become a vital partner in these efforts, as many denominations have embraced environmental conservation in their teachings.

Haggard Oluma, the Lira City Male Youth Councillor and Secretary for Works and Technical Services, echoed the call, urging residents to collect and dispose of plastic waste properly. He added that Lira City Council continues to sensitize the public on the dangers of improper plastic disposal.

Fr. Michael Onyango of the Sons of St. Pietrecina (SSP) said the environment is a gift from God and emphasized that harming it through plastic pollution affects the poor and vulnerable most. He invoked the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi on the love and care for nature.

Meanwhile, Lira City East Division Mayor George Okello Ayo decried the reckless disposal of plastics, which has led to blocked drainage systems. He called for a mindset change, beginning at the household level, to tackle the problem.

The event, organized in partnership with Lira Diocese, saw the donation of over 500 tree seedlings from Caritas Lira and 195 fruit tree seedlings from St. Katherine Girls Secondary School.

World Environment Day is marked every year on June 5. This year’s belated national celebration was held in Kabale Municipality under the theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution.”