By Namatovu Gladys
In a significant enforcement action, the National Forestry Authority (NFA) has apprehended 40 individuals in Kalangala District for engaging in illegal activities within Central Forest Reserves. The arrested individuals, including Nambogo Betty, Bira Rashid, Namukasa Evelyn, Semuju Yasin, and others, have been charged with offenses such as unauthorized tree cutting, charcoal burning, and illegal firewood harvesting, in violation of Uganda’s forest conservation laws.
Kalangala District Police Commander SP Kenneth Massette confirmed the arrests, stating, “The suspects have been convicted, some remanded, and others are awaiting court proceedings and further advice from the state.” The police case file, dated July 2024, underscores the seriousness of the offenses and the commitment to enforcing legal protections for Uganda’s forests.
Sulait Kafeero, the Local Council One Chairman of Mutambala village in Kalangala District, highlighted the role of local leaders in exacerbating illegal forest activities. “There are several acts of illegal forest activities in Kalangala District, often incited by local leaders,” Kafeero said, citing the case of Major Kigunddu Fred, who was exonerated earlier this year despite being found converting trees into timber illegally.
Kafeero criticized local leadership, stating, “This is a bad example of leadership in Kalangala, where instead of supporting government programs and entities like NFA, leaders make reckless and inciting statements to community members.” His comments followed a recent meeting at Mutambala landing site, where Resident District Commissioner Eva Muwangala Kwesiga controversially encouraged locals to exploit the Mutambala village forests.
The National Forestry Authority has condemned these actions, emphasizing the importance of legal adherence and community cooperation in protecting Uganda’s natural resources. Aldon Walukamba, Communications and Public Relations Manager of NFA, remarked, “We condemn the acts of the locals in Kalangala and call for the law to take its course because the forests are for all Ugandans and are protected by the government.”
Walukamba further called for increased police and community vigilance in safeguarding the Central Forest Reserves, stressing the need for enhanced security measures to protect both the environment and the livelihoods of local residents. “The collaboration between local leaders, the government, and entities like NFA is crucial in creating a safer and more prosperous community,” he added.
As forest crimes continue to pose threats to the environment and the well-being of islanders, the NFA’s enforcement actions and calls for community involvement reflect a broader commitment to sustainable forest management and legal compliance in Uganda.
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