environment 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
MPs Confront Devastation in Zoka Forest Reserve
Members of Parliament witnessed severe deforestation and illegal activities in Zoka Central Forest Reserve, prompting pledges for stronger protection measures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/zoka-mps-face-the-reality-of-a-vanishing-ecosystem-5571670
A recent visit by the parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources to Zoka Central Forest Reserve revealed a grim reality of environmental degradation. Heavy rains did little to wash away the stark evidence of illegal logging, rampant charcoal burning, and widespread encroachment that has left large swathes of the forest decimated.
The legislators observed countless tree stumps, both fresh and old, alongside abandoned charcoal kilns and cleared land, indicating a sustained assault on the ecosystem. The MPs expressed dismay at the continued destruction, questioning the effectiveness of security presence in the area.
Adjumani East MP James Mamawi highlighted the puzzling situation of illegal activities persisting near military barracks within the reserve. He stressed that while the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and the Ministry of Water and Environment hold primary responsibility, security agencies also have a crucial role to play in safeguarding national assets.
Representing the army, Intelligence Officer Nathan Lubowa refuted claims of compromise, stating the UPDF actively collaborates with conservation agencies. However, Shadow Minister for Water and Environment Jamal Yagalachi voiced disappointment, calling for greater accountability from all institutions tasked with forest protection.
Friends of Zoka (FoZ) presented a broader perspective, suggesting that the destruction is fueled by a complex commercial chain involving producers, transporters, and consumers, not just individual actors. They also pointed to challenges such as unclear forest boundaries, alleged militarization of the timber trade, and threats against environmental defenders.
Officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment acknowledged the need for boundary demarcation and assured that Zoka is among the reserves slated for this process. The Adjumani District chairperson outlined key drivers of degradation, including weak law enforcement and inadequate resources, and proposed solutions such as evicting encroachers and supporting alternative livelihoods.
Zoka Central Forest Reserve, a vital natural high forest in northern Uganda, faces significant threats to its valuable tree species, with forest loss attributed to subsistence farming alarmingly increasing in recent years.