Kagadi Forests Shrink, Chimpanzee Attacks Rise

Residents of Kagadi District have been living in fear for over three decades due to escalating human-chimpanzee conflict. The primary driver, according to local leaders and conservationists, is the severe degradation and fragmentation of vital forest habitats like Katyobona Private Forest Reserve and Kagombe Forest Reserve.

Human activities, including encroachment and the conversion of forestland into farms for crops like maize and sugarcane, have drastically reduced the natural environment available to chimpanzees. This “habitat squeeze” confines the animals to smaller, fragmented areas, compelling them to venture into villages, gardens, and trading centers in search of sustenance and safety.

These incursions have led to a tragic increase in chimpanzee attacks. Recent incidents include a four-year-old girl severely injured in May 2026 and another child killed in October 2025, both by chimpanzees emerging from Katyobona Forest. Over the past 30 years, environmentalists estimate around 100 people have been attacked, with seven fatalities.

Conservationists warn that continued deforestation will only worsen the conflict. While reforestation efforts are underway, with about 60% of Kagombe Forest Reserve and 40% of private forests restored, challenges remain. The district’s natural resources sector is significantly underfunded, with an annual budget of only Shs40 million.

Efforts are being made to mitigate the crisis, including the Uganda Wildlife Authority acquiring 30 acres for forest restoration and compensating affected homesteads. However, sustainable coexistence requires community practices that reduce confrontation and stronger government intervention to protect and restore remaining forest cover. The destruction of these habitats not only endangers local communities but also threatens Uganda’s crucial tourism economy.

This article is based on reporting from the Daily Monitor.