Canopy News Letter

 


 Issue : 012                                                                                                                May 2025


Published 12 times a year, the National Forestry Authority's (NFA) e-newsletter, The Canopy Newsletter, provides a comprehensive roundup of the month's top forestry news. It covers a wide range of topics, including forest reserves, rangers, forest lands, biomass, forest products, international forestry, innovation, and more.


National Forestry Authority News 

In summary:

1. NFA Coins New Strategic Plan to Transform Uganda’s Forest Management (2025-2030) NFA aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan and Vision 2040, aiming to protect forests, restore ecosystems, and plant 150 million seedlings.

2. NFA Hosts UNODC and Asian Delegates to Combat Forestry Crimes
Uganda shares best practices with seven Asian countries in a benchmarking meeting to fight illegal logging.

3. NFA and Centenary Bank Launch Masindi Forest Restoration Project
A 20-hectare restoration project begins, backed by local leaders and financial partners.

4. NFA and TotalEnergies Launch Tree Planting in Jubiya Forest
Joint effort to restore 38 hectares and promote biodiversity in Masaka.

5. NFA Strengthens Forest Crime Prosecution in Hoima
New legal office and enhanced cooperation with judiciary to fight illegal forestry activities.

6. NFA Hosts Ghana Armed Forces on Climate Security
Study tour highlights environmental security and regional cooperation.

7. NFA Engages Private Tree Farmers in Soroti to Boost Compliance
Farmers form association to promote sustainable tree growing and licensing adherence.

8. Empango Golf Tournament 2025 Kicks Off in Masindi
NFA-sponsored event promotes community engagement and forest conservation through sports.


NFA coins new Strategic Plan to Transform Uganda’s Forest Management 

The National Forestry Authority (NFA) has coined its new Corporate Strategic Plan aligned with Uganda’s 4th National Development Plan (NDPIV) for 2025/26–2029/30. The plan supports Uganda’s Vision 2040, the National Forestry Policy, and global sustainability goals. With a focus on sustainably managing central forest reserves (CFRs), the strategy aims to protect 1.265 million hectares from illegal activities and restore over 8,000 hectares of natural forests.

Key targets include planting 150 million tree seedlings, strengthening stakeholder partnerships, and supporting more than 22,000 households through community forestry. NFA’s mission emphasizes forest conservation and ecosystem restoration for socio-economic transformation and environmental integrity.

A budget of UGX 357.5 billion is allocated, sourced from the government and external partners. The plan reinforces NFA’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and teamwork under the theme “Forests for Generations,” aiming to enhance climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods across Uganda.


NFA Hosts UNODC and Asian Delegates to Combat Forestry Crimes

The National Forestry Authority (NFA) hosted a benchmarking meeting with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and delegates from seven Asian countries. The event focused on exchanging best practices in forest management, conservation, and tackling forestry crimes. Countries represented included Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. NFA Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha emphasized Uganda’s commitment to sustainable forestry, community engagement, and enforcing forest laws. Delegates toured Budongo Forest to learn about Uganda’s restoration and monitoring efforts. The visit underscored the need for global partnerships to fight illegal logging and protect biodiversity.

Ag ED NFA Stuart Maniraguha hosts a team from the UNODC at Bugolobi Office in Kampala


NFA and Centenary Bank Launch Masindi Forest Restoration Project

The National Forestry Authority (NFA), in partnership with Centenary Bank, officially launched a project to restore 20 hectares of Masindi Plantation Central Forest Reserve. Led by NFA Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha, the initiative aims to boost forest cover and promote sustainable livelihoods. Centenary Bank’s Western Regional Manager James Katamba reaffirmed the bank’s commitment. The Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, represented by Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga, emphasized the cultural and environmental importance of forests. The project sets the stage for community awareness campaigns and upcoming events like the Empango run, promoting forest conservation in the region.

NFA, Centenary Bank and Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom 


NFA and TotalEnergies Launch Tree Planting in Jubiya Forest

TotalEnergies EP Uganda and the National Forestry Authority (NFA) launched a tree-planting initiative to restore 38 hectares of degraded forest in Jubiya Central Forest Reserve. The project started with planting 450 indigenous seedlings, aiming to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change. NFA Range Manager Nekesa Esther praised the collaboration, highlighting its alignment with Uganda’s environmental goals. TotalEnergies reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality by 2050. The partnership illustrates the growing role of the private sector in environmental conservation and supports national efforts to green Uganda’s forest landscapes.

NFA - TotalEnergies partner to restore Jubiya Central Forest reserve in Masaka


NFA Strengthens Forest Crime Prosecution in Hoima

NFA Acting Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha met with Hoima Chief Magistrate Kunihira George to enhance cooperation on forest crime cases. They agreed to prioritize forestry-related prosecutions and improve evidence management. The meeting resolved to establish an NFA legal office in Hoima and hold quarterly judicial engagements. Both parties committed to harsher sentences for offenders and improved coordination between NFA, police, and judiciary. This initiative aims to bolster efforts against illegal logging and encroachment in Bunyoro’s forests, supporting Uganda’s broader environmental protection goals.

NFA management meets judicial officers at Hoima Court


NFA Hosts Ghana Armed Forces Command Team on Climate Security

The National Forestry Authority hosted a study tour for the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, focusing on “Climate Change, Environmental Security, and Development.” The delegation visited NFA headquarters to discuss forest management and environmental security challenges. Ag. Director of Plantations Development, Mr. Mwodi Martin, led the sessions, sharing Uganda’s strategies on forest conservation and climate resilience. This exchange highlights the growing recognition of environmental security in defense sectors and fosters regional cooperation in addressing climate-related challenges.

NFA Ag Director Plantations Development receives an accolade from the head of Ghanain delegation 


NFA Engages Private Tree Farmers in Soroti to Boost Compliance
The NFA Teso Sector held a successful meeting with private tree farmers at Suncity Hotel and Amusement Park. Chaired by the RDC of Kapelebyong and attended by other regional officials, the farmers were urged to comply with licensing conditions and capitalize on favorable rains for tree growing. The farmers resolved to form an association and elected interim leaders to better coordinate their activities. The meeting aimed to strengthen private forestry, promote sustainable tree farming, and support Uganda’s national reforestation efforts.

Engagement underway with private tree planters in Soroti district


31st Empango Golf Tournament 2025 Kicks Off in Masindi

The Empango Golf Tournament 2025, sponsored by the National Forestry Authority (NFA), officially commenced in Masindi. Aldon Walukamba, NFA Communications and Public Relations Manager, represented Acting Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha at the event. The tournament was flagged off by Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga, who praised NFA’s commitment to supporting community and environmental initiatives through sports. The event brings together golfers from across the region, promoting camaraderie and raising awareness of forest conservation efforts. The tournament also highlights the kingdom’s dedication to integrating culture, sport, and environmental stewardship.

Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister launches 31st Empango Golf Tournament


Editorial News

A Bold Strategic Path for Uganda’s Forests

The National Forestry Authority’s newly coined Corporate Strategic Plan is a timely and visionary framework aligned with Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan and Vision 2040. If fully implemented and adequately funded, this plan can revolutionize Uganda’s forestry sector by 2030. With a focus on sustainably managing Central Forest Reserves, the NFA seeks to protect over 1.265 million hectares and restore more than 8,000 hectares of degraded forestland.

The plan’s ambition is clear: 150 million tree seedlings planted, 22,000 households supported through community forestry, and partnerships strengthened nationwide. Backed by UGX 357.5 billion from government and development partners, it is not just a blueprint but a national call to action.

Under the theme “Forests for Generations,” Aldon Walukamba, Editor of this News Letter thinks that NFA’s strategy reinforces professionalism, transparency, and teamwork. It is a critical step toward climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable livelihoods ensuring Uganda’s forests remain a legacy for future generations.



Understories

Masindi Central Forest Reserve restored Read more 

NFA partners with TotalEnergies to restore Jubiya CFR Read more




Upcoming Events:
  • World Environment Day 2025 Celebrations in Kabale
  • Boundary opening activities
  • Community engagements in Budongo Systems Range
  • Community tree planting events
  • NFA strategic plan 2025-2030 launch
  • Corporate Tree planting
  • Media and community advocacy activities in various ranges
  • Visiting Partner Corporate entities 



 Thank you for reading

 




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