A Journey from destruction to restoration: The Story of Wosukira Milton.

A Journey from destruction to restoration: The Story of Wosukira Milton.

According to Milton, upon his release, he made a solemn vow never to exploit the forest again. Instead, he dedicated himself to the cause of restoration. He joined local conservation efforts and became an ambassador for reforestation.

In the village of Gulumati, Mayiyi Parish of Bumugibole Sub County, a remarkable transformation has unfolded. Wosukira Milton, a 28-year-old once known for his role in the deforestation and degradation that plagued Mount Elgon Na[1]tional Park (MENP), has become a beacon of hope and change.

Milton\’s early life was marked by hardship. Dropping out of school in Primary Four, he faced a harsh reality. In 2008, driven by the need to support his family, he resorted to illegal harvesting of timber and of selling firewood from the National Park. For three years, this became his way of life.

However, the consequences of his actions caught up with him. Milton was imprisoned for seven months for his unauthorized activities in the forest. It was a turning point in his life. The experience of incarceration made him realize the gravity of his actions and the importance of preserving the natural environment.

According to Milton, upon his release, he made a solemn vow never to exploit the forest again. Instead, he dedicated himself to the cause of restoration. He joined local conservation efforts and became an ambassador for reforestation.

With newfound determination, he was selected to be the Tree Nursery Bed Operator of Ganzo Mayiyi Nursery, a nursery under the Tree Planting for Improved Livelihood project funded by the International Tree Foundation, Admiral, and EKCT.

Milton\’s efforts did not go unnoticed. His commitment to restoring the forest has earned him the respect and admiration of his community. He found a new sense of pride in being part of the restoration movement. \”I feel very proud to be among those restoring the forest,\” Milton says, his voice filled with conviction.

This transformation has had a profound impact on his personal life as well. Milton says he can now take care of his family, providing for their basic needs because of the wage he earns as a Nursery Operator. \”My family is now thriving, and I have found joy in their well-being. My family is now the best,\” he says.

The journey from deforestation to restoration also brought about a change in Milton\’s self-esteem. “I have become more confident and articulate, speaking to people about the importance of protecting the environment. My story has served as a powerful example that change is possible, and that one can move away from destructive behaviors to embrace a more sustainable and fulfilling path,” he says.

He adds, \”I am a good example that we can change from doing illegalities such as degradation of forests. I urge others not to cut trees, but to join the efforts in preserving and restoring forests’’.

Damba Tonny, the extension officer providing oversight to the TPIL project, says Milton is now a symbol of change in the community.

“Mount Elgon National Park can now flourish once again, thanks to the dedication and commitment of individuals like Wosukira Milton. His story continues to inspire and remind everyone that it is never too late to change and make a positive impact on the world,” he says.