national 13 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government Distributes Seized Charcoal to Affected Communities
Ugandan authorities have begun distributing impounded charcoal freely to local communities in Nwoya District. This initiative aims to support residents negatively impacted by deforestation due to illegal charcoal burning activities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-starts-freely-distributing-impounded-charcoal-5557094
In a novel approach to environmental conservation and community support, Ugandan security forces have started distributing charcoal that was previously seized from illegal dealers. This action, primarily taking place in Nwoya District, follows a recent directive to repurpose confiscated charcoal.
The distribution targets communities in areas like Anaka Town Council and Agungu Village, which have suffered from the environmental degradation caused by illicit charcoal production. Major Bilal Katamba, the Forth Infantry Division Public Information Officer, stated that the exercise aligns with directives to aid those whose livelihoods are threatened by deforestation.
Major General Busizoori, who issued the directive, emphasized that the charcoal is being given to residents as their environment has been severely harmed. He urged the community to actively participate in environmental protection and collaborate with security agencies to combat illegal logging and charcoal burning. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Meanwhile, individuals apprehended in connection with the impounded charcoal are under investigation by the Nwoya District Police. The government recently banned the transportation of charcoal into Uganda, citing defiance of a presidential order against commercial activities. While some dealers claim to source charcoal from South Sudan, security forces consider these claims unrealistic and detrimental to regional stability and environments.
Enforcement of the ban remains a significant challenge, with illegal charcoal production persisting in northern Uganda. Despite past operations leading to arrests and seizures, the illicit trade continues. The government, in partnership with international organizations, is implementing initiatives focused on sustainable forestry, reforestation, and promoting cleaner energy alternatives to address the root causes of deforestation.