By 
The Zambia Army has launched Operation Byala Mitengo, a nationwide tree-planting campaign aimed at encouraging every soldier to plant at least 100 trees annually as part of a long-term environmental sustainability drive.
The initiative, conceived by Brigadier General Joyce Puta, is designed to promote afforestation and environmental protection across the country.
Speaking during the official launch at Arakan Barracks in Lusaka on Friday, Brig Gen Puta (Rtd) — the first female officer to be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the Zambia Army — underscored the urgent need for environmental conservation.
She warned that environmental degradation continued to pose serious threats to food security, public health, safety, and economic stability.
“We have a responsibility to contribute positively to environmental protection through deliberate and sustained tree-planting efforts,” Brig Gen Puta said.
Read more: Zambia Army partners tourism institute to equip personnel with training in hospitality management
Meanwhile, Zambia Army Headquarters Garrison Commander, Brig Gen Golden Ng’andwe, commended the initiative and described it as a sustainable programme that would benefit future generations.
He further assured that the trees planted under Operation Byala Mitengo would be properly nurtured and preserved, and urged civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative to ensure its long-term success.
The programme has since been extended to all Lusaka-based military units, with more than 200 saplings already planted at key institutions, including Garrison Camp Hospital, Arakan Boys and Girls Secondary School, and Chisengalumbwe Primary School.
He called on soldiers and surrounding communities to actively participate in tree-planting activities and take collective responsibility for environmental sustainability.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments