CEJ Boosts Tree Planting Drive in Serenje with Water Facility Handover
The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has handed over a water facility to the Forestry Department in Serenje District, marking a significant step in efforts to scale up tree planting and reforestation.
The facility is expected to support the production of over 20,000 assorted seedlings, helping combat deforestation and promote environmental sustainability in the region.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, CEJ Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Haggai Nyambe said Serenje has emerged as a key area for the Centre’s environmental interventions, with three projects currently underway and a fourth in the pipeline.
He revealed that although the initial plan was to construct a nursery shade, consultations with the Forestry Department led to a shift in focus toward a much-needed water supply facility.
“This facility was made possible through funding from Bread for the World and reflects CEJ’s continued collaboration with government departments and local authorities to promote reforestation,” said Mr. Nyambe.
Serenje District Commissioner Paul Masuwa described the handover as a milestone in ongoing environmental protection efforts. “This initiative will greatly enhance the Forestry Department’s capacity to nurture and maintain seedlings vital to afforestation projects,” he noted.
Echoing the sentiment, District Forestry Officer Shadrick Sapwa revealed that his office had been operating without water for more than a year, mainly due to equipment challenges and theft of essential solar infrastructure.
“With this new facility, we are now positioned to meet—and even surpass—our 20,000 seedling target. The seedlings will be distributed to institutions like schools and hospitals to promote greening across Serenje,” he added.
Meanwhile, Serenje District Council Director of Planning Mwamba Mukupa praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of reliable water access for the success of tree planting activities. She expressed optimism about sustained collaboration between CEJ, the Forestry Department, and the local authority to expand environmental programs in the district.
