By Elywin Chighali Mhango
In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and enhance community health, the Active Youth Organization for Development (AYOD) joined forces with aspiring independent shadow Member of Parliament for Masintha Constituency, Mr. Joseph Msambathukuta Chasweka, and the dedicated staff of Chilinde Health Centre on Friday for a tree planting initiative.
The event, which aimed to raise awareness about the importance of trees in supporting health and well-being, saw dozens of volunteers planting various indigenous tree species around the health center’s premises.
“Planting trees is not only about beautifying our environment; it’s a step towards ensuring a healthier future for our community. “Trees play a crucial role in providing clean air, reducing heat, and improving overall health outcomes. It’s important that we invest in our environment and health simultaneously. said the members
Health Centre staff expressed their appreciation for the initiative, highlighting the need for more green spaces in urban areas. “We often talk about the importance of health, but we must also consider the relationships between our environment and our health,”.”This initiative will make Chilinde Health Centre a more welcoming place for patients and staff alike.”
Volunteers from AYOD echoed similar sentiments, with many emphasizing their commitment to ongoing environmental projects. “This is just the beginning. We aim to continue promoting tree planting initiatives and educate our community about the importance of conservation,” stated AYOD member.
The event concluded with a call to action for community members to engage in tree planting and to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. Organizers hope that this initiative will inspire similar efforts across the Masintha constituency and beyond.
As the trees took root in the fertile soil of Chilinde, so too did a spirit of collective responsibility towards the environment—an ethos that both Mr. Chasweka and the AYOD are determined to cultivate in the months and years to come.
