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environment 5 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Bugoma Forest Handover to UWA Stalled Despite Museveni's Directive

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is yet to receive formal control of Bugoma Forest Reserve over a month after President Museveni ordered its transfer from the National Forestry Authority for enhanced protection. Museveni has called for immediate eviction of encroachers and upgrading the area to national park status to safeguard its vital ecosystem role. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bugoma-forest-protection-plan-delayed-despite-museveni-s-order--5414212

The management transfer of Bugoma Forest Reserve to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) remains pending, despite President Yoweri Museveni’s clear instructions issued more than a month ago.

UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi confirmed that no official handover has occurred from the current managers, the National Forestry Authority (NFA). “Once I get it, I will just implement because directives are not questionable,” he stated.

In a February 23, 2026 letter to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Museveni demanded an immediate stop to deforestation, degradation, and encroachment in the 41,142-hectare forest, gazetted as a central reserve in 1932. The forest, located southwest of Hoima, northeast of Kyenjojo, and east of Lake Albert, supports key wildlife like chimpanzees and plays a crucial role in water catchment, carbon absorption, and biodiversity.

Museveni highlighted recent deliberate encroachments, noting the forest was pristine when he first flew over it decades ago. He ordered UWA to take charge of protection, evict all encroachers without compensation, and tasked Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to probe alleged UPDF involvement in charcoal burning.

The President proposed elevating Bugoma to national park status for stronger safeguards. UWA spokesperson Bashir Hangi noted ongoing consultations involving the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities to formalize the process.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)