From Muazu Hardawa, Bauchi

As part of activities marking the Golden Jubilee celebration of Bauchi State, the Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria (BACATMA), in collaboration with the Society for Family Health (SFH), has led a tree planting campaign aimed at promoting environmental protection, public health improvement, and sustainable development.

The campaign underscores the commitment of the Bauchi State Government and its development partners to environmental sustainability as a key component of public health, particularly in addressing the impacts of climate change and reducing the prevalence of environmentally related diseases.

Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Chairman of BACATMA, Dr. Adamu Umar Sambo, said tree planting goes beyond environmental beautification, stressing that it plays a critical role in protecting public health, maintaining ecological balance, and securing a healthier future for present and future generations. He urged residents of the state to embrace tree planting and ensure proper care of the planted trees to maximise long-term benefits.

Dr. Sambo noted that a healthier environment directly supports efforts to control and prevent diseases such as malaria and other climate-sensitive health conditions, adding that sustainable environmental practices remain essential to improving overall wellbeing in the state.

BACATMA and SFH reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote public health, environmental sustainability, and community development as Bauchi State marks 50 years of existence and continues its drive towards a healthier and more sustainable future