Bugoma Forest: Illegal Activities Persist Despite UWA Takeover

Despite the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) taking over the management of Bugoma Central Forest Reserve three months ago, local communities are reporting a persistent struggle against illegal activities within the protected area. Residents and local leaders claim that charcoal burners have found new ways to access the forest, often operating under the cover of night and allegedly bribing UWA guards.

The UWA officially took over the forest’s management from the National Forestry Authority (NFA) in May, following widespread concerns about its ongoing degradation due to encroachment, illegal logging, and agricultural practices. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja had directed UWA to protect and restore the reserve, ordering encroachers to vacate.

However, the new management arrangement has yet to fully curb the problem. According to Mr. Mary Mugisa, the village chairperson of Kyareeni Cell, some UWA forest guards have been demanding payments of up to Shs25,000 from charcoal burners to allow them access. He also noted that illegal operators have shifted their working hours to evade patrols, entering the forest in the evening and leaving early in the morning.

Furthermore, Mr. Mugisa highlighted that after police withdrew essential equipment for crossing a river bordering the forest, some individuals have resorted to makeshift boats, leading to dangerous situations. He recounted an incident where a charcoal burner drowned while allegedly trying to escape UWA patrols.

Mr. Justus Businge, chairperson of Pachwa Town Council, acknowledged a reduction in overall encroachment since UWA’s involvement but pointed to the numerous entry points along the Kagadi side of the forest as a significant challenge. He identified several sub-counties bordering the forest with multiple access points.

UWA spokesperson Hangi Bashir stated that the authority has implemented stricter access controls and is developing a long-term management and restoration strategy. He cited financial constraints as a challenge, as UWA assumed control after the budget had already been finalized. Bashir confirmed that UWA has intercepted vehicles carrying charcoal and arrested individuals involved in illegal activities, emphasizing the authority’s intent to protect the forest while maintaining community relations. He noted that enforcement action is taken when guidelines are not followed.