By Sallieu S, Kanu
Freetown, June 1, 2026 — In the lead-up to World Environment Day on June 5, Sierra Leone’s Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Simon Owizz Koroma, has called for stronger environmental protection initiatives in schools. Dr. Koroma, who also serves as the country’s only Government Chief Consultant Forensic Pathologist, planted ten non-fruit-bearing trees at his alma mater, the West African Methodist Collegiate Secondary School (WAMCOL), in Freetown.
The symbolic tree-planting exercise was organized by the Media Initiative for Climate Change and the Environment (MICCE), whose Director, Martha Kargbo, emphasized that trees are vital to safeguarding public health and combating climate change. She noted that the initiative aims to raise awareness among pupils about the importance of conservation and the role of trees in protecting the planet from environmental degradation.
Dr. Koroma expressed gratitude to MICCE for the opportunity to contribute to environmental preservation within his former school. He urged citizens to desist from indiscriminate tree cutting and encouraged communities to replace every felled tree with new ones. “Tree planting remains one of the most effective ways to combat climate change, improve air quality, and safeguard biodiversity,” he said, stressing that environmental protection is a collective responsibility.
The Chief Medical Examiner dedicated the newly planted trees to past teachers who shaped his journey, describing the gesture as a tribute to their lasting impact. “Trees grow and provide oxygen for man. Man breathes out carbon dioxide, which is good for trees,” he remarked, highlighting the natural balance between humans and the environment.
Senior Principal Dr. Koroma of the Senior Secondary School and Junior Principal Mrs. Miranda Cole of the Junior Secondary School praised the initiative, describing it as a valuable lesson in environmental stewardship. They encouraged pupils to take ownership of the trees and serve as ambassadors for sustainability within their communities.
The exercise marks a significant step in promoting environmental consciousness among Sierra Leone’s youth, aligning with global efforts to foster sustainable development and climate resilience.