Canopy News Letter
Issue : 010 March 2025
President Museveni Praises Imaramagambo Forest Management
President Yoweri Museveni, during his Western
Uganda tour, admired the well-preserved Imaramagambo Central Forest Reserve
(CFR), by the National Forestry Authority (NFA). "On my way to Sheema District, I stopped to view the Imaramagambo
impenetrable Forest in Bushenyi," he posted on X. Covering 29,127
hectares, the forest, gazetted in 1932, serves as a crucial water catchment for
Lake Edward. It harbors diverse wildlife, protects fragile soils, and plays a
vital role in climate regulation. NFA promotes eco-tourism in its northern
parts. Read more
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| H.E. President Yoweri KagutaTibuhaburwa Museveni takes off time to witness forest conservation in Uganda |
NFA Board Engages Lira City Leaders on Forest Protection
NFA Board Chair Dr. Christopher Ebal led discussions in Achwa Range, urging local leaders to support forest conservation. Lira Mayor Sam Asou emphasized collaboration with NFA and NEMA to develop sustainable urban plans. NFA-ED Stuart Maniraguha stressed the need to protect CFR boundaries and promote eco-tourism. "Climate action starts with protecting forests," said RCC Egole Lawrence.
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| Centre in suit : NFA Board Chairman Dr. Eng. Christopher Ebal leads monitoring team at Kachung forest in Lira City |
Uganda Marks International Day of Forests 2025
During Uganda Water and Environment Week, stakeholders gathered to promote afforestation. Acting NFA Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha highlighted tree-planting initiatives, planting an Afzelia Africana tree to symbolize conservation commitment. The Uganda-EU Forest Partnership was recognized for supporting reforestation and green job creation. "Deforestation threatens water resources and biodiversity," said Water Ministry PS Dr. Alfred Okidi.
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| NFA Ag ED Stuart Maniraguha plants Afzelia tree at the International Resources Institute |
NFA Strengthens Forest Management with Updated
Plans across Reserves
The National Forestry Authority (NFA) is
reinforcing its commitment to sustainable forest management through updated
Forest Management Plans (FMPs) for Central Forest Reserves (CFRs) across
the country. As of 2024, 18 out of 55 Forest Management Plan Areas (FMPAs) have
valid FMPs, guiding conservation and responsible resource use.
These plans, spanning durations of 10 to 20 years,
are instrumental in ensuring the sustainable utilization of Uganda’s forest
resources while preserving biodiversity. Some of the reserves covered by valid
plans include Mabira, Kalinzu, Kasyoha-Kitomi, Rwoho-Bugamba, and Sango Bay,
among others.
According to NFA, the FMPs outline strategies for
conservation, ecotourism development, reforestation, and community involvement
in sustainable forestry practices. "Forest Management Plans provide a
framework to balance conservation efforts with economic benefits, ensuring that
forests continue to serve both present and future generations," said Aldon
Walukamba Communications and Public Relations Manager, highlighting the
significance of the updated plans. Read more
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| NFA Forest experts implementing plans inside a Central Forest Reserve in Uganda |
The authority is working to extend coverage and update expired plans to improve efficiency in forest governance. With increasing threats from encroachment and climate change, NFA is prioritizing the implementation of science-driven strategies to enhance Uganda’s forest cover.
The move aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and
global climate action commitments, reinforcing the country’s dedication to
environmental sustainability.
NFA Intensifies Patrols inside Mabira Forest to curb illegal forest activities
The National Forestry Authority (NFA) has increased patrols in Mabira Forest to
curb illegal logging and poaching. Recent operations led to the arrest of ten
suspects in Bulengeza, found with power saws, timber, and charcoal. "We
are committed to tackling environmental crimes," said NFA’s PR Manager
Aldon Walukamba. Mabira, one of Uganda’s largest forests, faces deforestation
threats. Authorities vowed stricter enforcement to protect it for future
generations. in the past one month 20 suspects were arrests and arraigned in court with close to 200 vehicles loaded with illegal forest products impounded and fined legally. Read more
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| Busted: Illegal forest crimes suspects being transported to court by NFA Enforcement officials |
NFA to Introduce use of Efficient Timber Forensics Technology
The NFA, with support from the UNODC, is set to implement timber forensics using DNA analysis to combat illegal logging. The technique will identify timber species and origins, strengthening law enforcement. "Forensic science is a powerful tool for prosecuting forestry crimes," said James Mununa, NFA Law Enforcement Coordinator. A UNODC assessment has identified training and equipment needs for Uganda’s timber forensics capacity.
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| NFA Coordinator Enforcement James Mununa tests the age and strand of a tree specie inside a Lab |
NFA Ag ED Stuart Maniraguha Leads field visit to Budongo Forest
Acting NFA Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha and Director of Natural Forests Management Tom Rukundo inspected Budongo and Nyakunyu CFRs. They assessed conservation progress, met field staff, and discussed illegal logging challenges. Budongo, home to chimpanzees and rare birds, is key for biodiversity. "Sustainable forestry is vital for environmental stability," Maniraguha said.
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| Leading by Example: NFA Ag ED Stuart Maniraguha briefs stakeholders about forestry management inside Budongo forest |
Uganda Olympic Committee Honors NFA for Conservation Efforts
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| L-R: NFA Ag ED Stuart Maniraguha, UOC President Dr. Donald Rukare and Kenneth Opedun |
The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) has recognized the National Forestry Authority (NFA) for its role in forest conservation. UOC President Dr. Donald Rukare presented an award to NFA Ag. Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha, applauding NFA’s work in restoring Central Forest Reserves. NFA Communications Manager Aldon Walukamba emphasized the importance of linking conservation with sports. The partnership aligns with Uganda’s goal of increasing forest cover to 24% by 2030.
NFA and Gro Foundation Plan Reforestation Partnership
NFA is in talks with the GRO Foundation to launch large-scale afforestation
projects in CFRs. The initiative aims to rehabilitate degraded forests, promote
biodiversity, and engage local communities in conservation. "This
partnership aligns with Uganda’s forest restoration goals and global climate
commitments," said Maniraguha.
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| NFA and GRO Foundation officials at NFA Head Office in Bugolobi - Kampala |
Stuart Maniraguha Receives ABETO Peace Award for Forestry Leadership
NFA Acting Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha has received the ABETO Peace Award for his leadership in sustainable forestry. The ceremony, officiated by Minister Ruth Nankabirwa at Hotel Africana, honored individuals promoting peace and development. Maniraguha was recognized for his efforts in tackling deforestation and advancing conservation. He dedicated the award to his team, emphasizing collective responsibility in safeguarding Uganda’s forests. Other awardees included Inspector General of Government Betty Kamya and Minister Margaret Muhanga.
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| NFA Ag ED Stuart Maniraguha receives the Peace award from Hon. Dr. Canon Ruth Nankabirwa |
Editorial News
NFA Intensifies Crackdown on Forest Crimes Amid
Vision 2040 and NDP IV Goals
In a bold move to protect Uganda’s forest cover,
the National Forestry Authority (NFA) leadership has arrested over 20 suspects and
arraigned them in court, impounded close to 200 vehicles for illegal forest
crimes within a month, , coinciding with the International Day of Tree
Planting. This effort aligns with Vision 2040 and the Fourth National
Development Plan (NDP IV), reinforcing Uganda’s commitment to sustainable
environmental management.
NFA remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate by
collaborating with stakeholders and law enforcement to curb deforestation and
encroachment. "We are determined to restore and protect our forest
reserves," NFA leadership affirmed.
The crackdown has received widespread community
support, with thousands applauding NFA’s efforts. Aldon Walukamba, Editor of
this Newsletter, acknowledges the positive feedback but urges Ugandans to
remain vigilant. "Let’s all be guardians of our forests. Report any
illegal activities to NFA," he emphasized. Uganda’s forests are a national
treasure—protecting them secures our future.
NFA Ranges News
Six Arrested for Illegal Forestry Activities in Mabira CFR
Six suspects, including
NFA staff and a police officer, have been remanded after being charged with
illegal forestry activities in Mabira Central Forest Reserve. Twalik Mugabo and
Sebufu Edrisa were caught with illegal timber and charcoal in Mukono. NFA
patrolmen, a forest supervisor, and a police officer were charged with neglect
of duty. They all pleaded not guilty and will appear in court on April 14. The
arrests highlight Uganda’s ongoing struggle against forest exploitation and the
critical role of law enforcement in conservation efforts.
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| Forest crimes suspects en-route to the Standards and Utilities Court in Kampala |
Five Remanded Over Illegal Clearing of Kagombe Forest
Five men accused of
illegally clearing part of Kagombe Central Forest Reserve in Kibaale have been
remanded to Luzira Prison. The suspects, arrested during an NFA crackdown, face
charges of unlawful land clearance. Kagombe, a vital watershed for the Kagombe
and Muzizi rivers, is under increasing threat from encroachment. Magistrate
Molly Alice Adong scheduled their next hearing for April 3. Environmentalists
warn that continued deforestation threatens Uganda’s biodiversity and water
resources.
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| Remanded and await to be transported to prison over committing forest crimes |
Anti-Wildlife Crimes Task Force Holds Awareness Meeting in Gulu
The National Anti-Wildlife
Crimes Coordination Task Force concluded a two-day meeting in Gulu, training
law enforcement officers on combating wildlife and forestry crimes. Discussions
included species identification, trafficking tactics, and a work plan for
future operations. The multi-agency Task Force, comprising 16 government
institutions, emphasized collaboration in tackling illegal activities
threatening Uganda’s biodiversity. Officials pledged continued efforts to
strengthen enforcement against environmental crimes.
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| Participants in the Anti-Wildlife Crimes Task Force Holds Awareness Meeting in Gulu |
Two Arrested for Illegal Charcoal Burning in West Bugwe CFR
Two men were arrested
in Sidimbire for illegal charcoal burning in West Bugwe Central Forest Reserve.
NFA Forest Supervisor Mudhalya Grace confirmed they were caught with freshly
cut trees and charcoal production equipment. Illegal charcoal burning is a
leading cause of deforestation in Uganda. The suspects remain in police custody
and face charges under forestry laws. NFA has intensified crackdowns to curb
deforestation and promote sustainable forest management.
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| Nabbed: Forest crimes suspects ready to face justice |
NFA Re-Demarcates Lira
Central Forest Reserve
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| Fulfilling NFA Mandate: Lira Central Forest Reserve demarcated |
The National Forestry Authority has re-demarcating the boundaries of Lira Central Forest Reserve to curb encroachment. Aswa Range Manager Michael Ojah said the process aims to restore the original 138-hectare boundary using survey pillars. Lira City Assistant RCC Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele said the area will be developed into a recreational site, benefiting the community. Part of the land is already occupied by private developers, but authorities plan to engage affected residents for a solution. Read more
Understories
NFA partners with the World Bank to restore Bugoma Central Forest Reserve Read more
Losing forest carbon stocks could put climate goals out of reach Read more
- Boundary opening activities
- Community tree planting events
- NFA Anniversary April 2025
- Corporate Tree planting
- Media and community advocacy activities in various ranges
- Visiting Partner Corporate entities
- Easter holiday for tree planting
- International Labor Day 2025
Thank you for reading
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