The Mbeya District Council has planted 1,000 tree seedlings at Juhudi Usongwe Secondary School in Utengule Usongwe Ward as part of activities marking the lead-up to Tanzania’s Union Day celebrations.
The exercise, held on April 25, 2026, brought together Council management, departmental staff, teachers and students, with a focus on strengthening environmental conservation efforts and raising awareness on climate change impacts through practical action.
The initiative targeted the improvement of the school environment through the planting of both shade and fruit trees, aiming not only to beautify the area but also to contribute to long-term ecological and economic benefits.
Speaking during the launch of the exercise, Acting Executive Director of Mbeya District Council, CPA Dinday Njile, said tree planting remains a shared responsibility for all citizens in safeguarding the environment for current and future generations.
He said the Council deliberately involved students in this year’s exercise to strengthen environmental awareness from an early age and to connect them with national values, including unity and development.
“Union Day is a reminder of the strength of our unity as a nation. Beyond celebrations, we must also reflect this unity through practical actions that protect our environment and support sustainable development,” CPA Njile said.
He added that environmental protection efforts such as tree planting are also part of building a green economy that benefits communities while addressing the effects of climate change.
Students from Juhudi Usongwe Secondary School who participated in the exercise expressed appreciation for being involved, saying the activity had given them practical lessons on environmental conservation.
They pledged to take care of the planted trees to ensure they grow and serve the school and surrounding community for years to come.
The students further said the initiative had inspired them to become environmental ambassadors, both within and outside their school, as the country continues to strengthen its development and unity agenda through the Union.
