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{
    "id": 1499436,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1499436/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 299,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Nambale, Independent",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Geoffrey Mulanya",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": " Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for giving me this opportunity to complete my contribution to this particular Bill. I support the Bill to amend the Environmental Management Act so that we can regulate the planting of eucalyptus trees in this country. Research has shown that this tree has a high transpiration rate in that it is very difficult for other trees or plants to grow near or under it. As a result, it has caused many problems in our country. Many people have been rushing to plant eucalyptus trees, especially in swampy areas and near riverbanks. Traditionally, we had crops that would support our food basket, such as arrow roots and other crops that could grow near riverbanks and swampy areas. However, after the introduction of eucalyptus trees, the production of some of these crops has drastically reduced. As such, our people are suffering. For instance, in my constituency of Nambale, many people have been destroying the riverbanks and the swampy areas. We no longer have swampy areas where we can grow crops during drought. As a result, I wish to support the amendment of the Act so that we can regulate the eucalyptus trees being planted near the riverbanks. Let us have it controlled by growing them in dry areas because of their resistance to drought. The tree can do well in areas where agricultural production is not being done so that the more viable agricultural land can be used for food production. Hon. Temporary Speaker, we know that the disadvantages of this particular tree outweigh the advantages. Although science has shown that this tree can help us have treatment for arthritis and other itchy diseases, when you look at the wood produced from the eucalyptus tree, it is not even the wood that is attractive to people involved in joinery works because it is too hard that it cannot produce good furniture. Therefore, when we allow this tree to grow, we destroy the environment. For that reason, I support the Motion and pray that the tree be regulated and not be planted near riverbanks and swampy areas. Thank you."
}