Canopy News Letter
Issue : 005 October 2024
NFA
in Talks with Good Neighbors Global Impact Foundation for REDD+ Project
The
National Forestry Authority (NFA) met with Good Neighbors Global Impact
Foundation to explore partnerships for implementing the REDD+ project.
This
initiative supports Uganda’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets while
addressing climate change, environmental degradation, and social challenges.
Good Neighbors, a consortium from Korea, aims to secure 37 million carbon
credits by 2030. Their pre-visit study identified potential areas for
afforestation in Masindi, Hoima, Buikwe, and Amolator. The project aligns with
Uganda's National REDD+ Strategy, aiming for sustainable forest management and
carbon stock enhancement.
 |
| NFA and Good Neighbors after discussing REDD+ project collaboration |
NFA
Signs MoU with KYAGA CFM Group in Mpigi District
On
October 24, 2024, the National Forestry Authority (NFA) signed a Collaborative
Forest Management (CFM) agreement with the Kyansozi Gangu Conservation
Association (KYAGA) in Mpigi. KYAGA, consisting of four subgroups, manages 252.6
hectares across Gangu, Kyansozi, and Nawandigi Central Forest Reserves. The
signing event at Kammengo community centre included local leaders, NFA staff,
and community members. KYAGA Chairman Matia highlighted the group's
transformation from former encroachers to conservation advocates, requesting
support for SACCOs, livestock, and hosting National Environment Day. NFA
praised KYAGA's restoration efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to community
collaboration for forest conservation.
 |
| KYAGA, Mpigi District Leadership, and NFA sign forest management agreement |
NFA Engages Communities on Forest Boundary Opening
On October 21, 2024, the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and Biodiversity for Resilience (B4R) held a community meeting on boundary reopening of Nangolibwel Central Forest Reserve (CFR) in Morulem Town Council. Elders acknowledged the presence of boundary mark stones and emphasized the need for cooperation between NFA and the community to protect the forest. The NFA's Range Manager, Bruno Okwir, expressed appreciation for the community's involvement and confirmed the collaboration with surveyors and locals for the boundary opening. The elders stressed the importance of forests in saving humanity and called for community cooperation with NFA efforts.
 |
| NFA and community discuss Nangolibwel CFR boundary reopening collaboration |
UNODC Workshop on Combating Deforestation in Uganda
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
(UNODC) organized a workshop in Kampala, focusing on using the Criminal Justice
System to combat deforestation in Uganda. NFA's Coordinator of Law Enforcement,
James Mununa, highlighted the critical role of law enforcement in curbing illegal
logging. The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration between
agencies to strengthen forest conservation. UNODC representatives called for
stronger enforcement to tackle deforestation and forest degradation,
emphasizing the need to safeguard Uganda’s forests for future generations.
 |
| UNODC and NFA collaborate to combat deforestation in Uganda |
NFA Boosts Kabalega Independence Run in Hoima
On October 5, 2024, the National Forestry Authority
(NFA) participated in the Kabalega Independence Run in Hoima, organized by
Bunyoro Kingdom. Under the theme “Run for a Green Future,” participants ran
2km, 5km, and 10km races. NFA’s Communications Manager praised the kingdom’s
efforts to promote reforestation and pledged NFA's support through tree
seedlings. Bunyoro’s Prime Minister, Dr. Kasirivu Atwooki, urged the community
to protect the environment and appreciated NFA’s role in managing Uganda's
forests. The event concluded with speeches and activities promoting
environmental conservation.
 |
| L - R: NFA Communications and Budongo Range Managers participate in Kabalega Run 2024 |
Wildlife Conservation Society Supports NFA with 30 SMART Data Collection
Phones
On October 16, 2024, the Wildlife Conservation
Society (WCS) donated 30 rugged mobile phones to the National Forestry
Authority (NFA) for use in monitoring forestry activities in Budongo Systems
Range. These phones, funded by Total Energies, will assist NFA staff in collecting
real-time forest patrol data. NFA’s Law Enforcement Coordinator, James Mununa,
thanked WCS and Total Energies for their continued support, which includes
previous donations of laptops, desktops, and solar units. The SMART technology
will enhance forest management and support legal action against illegal
activities.
 |
| NFA Managers receive SMART Equipment from Wildlife Conservation Society in Masindi |
Masaka District Committee Supports NFA Boundary
Reopening in Bukakata CFR
On October 10, 2024, Masaka District's Natural
Resources Committee met to discuss boundary issues between the National
Forestry Authority (NFA) and the district. Aldon Walukamba, NFA's
Communications & PR Manager, emphasized the importance of collaboration to
protect Masaka’s forests. Masaka’s Natural Resources Officer, Ruth Nakyejjwe,
requested a comprehensive report on boundary reopening for Jubiya, Bukakata,
and Kisasa CFRs. The District Internal Security Officer, Winnie Wakyaya,
commended NFA's efforts and suggested increased patrols and boundary planting
to safeguard the Central Forest Reserves (CFRs).
 |
| Masaka district leadership and NFA officials at Natural Resources meeting |
Building Our Future Together at NFA
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues,
As we continue to move forward, it’s important for us to remember to check on ourselves, both in good times and in challenging ones. Congratulations to those of you who have been promoted—this is a testament to your dedication and hard work. Let us focus on building our human capital while we are here, so we are prepared for whatever the future holds.
Mainstreaming has now become a well-established part of our work, and as we transition into the Ministry of Water and Environment, we should look at this change positively. Remember, the bill is not yet law until it is signed, so we must remain focused on our work and not be distracted.
We have made significant progress, with 54 staff contracts being considered for renewal, six staff promoted, and 13 vacant positions created. This demonstrates that we are still moving forward and working diligently.
Transition is a process, and even though it may feel uncertain at times, it is not a vote of no confidence—it’s an opportunity for growth. Let’s continue to support each other and deliver on NFA’s mandate until the very last moment.
Let’s stay focused, physically fit, and mentally prepared. Together, we will succeed.
Thank you.
Understories
We may lose Mabira
Forest - NFA boss Stuart Maniraguha Read
more
Restoring Uganda’s Forests: The Key to Climate Resilience
and Agricultural Sustainability Read
more
Uganda leads in integrating agriculture and biodiversity
conservation Read
more
Events
- Corporate Tree planting
- Biodiversity for Resilience community sensitization in villages
- Restoration of natural forests
- Boundary opening exercises
- Media and community advocacy activities in various ranges
- Eco - Tourism promotions in Uganda
- Green Partnerships Magazine activities
Reversing driving forces against forest cover change | MorningAtNTV View more Uganda at 62 years, our forestry journey and efforts employed View more
The role of women in environment conservation View more
Comments
Post a Comment