news 10 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Escalating Conflict: Mt Elgon Park Boundary Dispute Intensifies
Communities surrounding Mt Elgon National Park are in an escalating dispute with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), accusing rangers of excessive force and crop destruction during boundary enforcement operations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/locals-row-with-uwa-over-mt-elgon-park-escalates-5590318
Tensions are running high between residents living near Mt Elgon National Park and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Locals are accusing UWA rangers of using disproportionate force and destroying their crops during ongoing operations to enforce park boundaries in areas like Bushiyi, Bundesi, Bukalasi, and Bubiita.
The conflict stems from the gazetting of the area as a national park in 1993. Since then, clashes between UWA rangers and the local communities have become frequent, leading to injuries and, in some cases, fatalities on both sides.
Recent incidents, including the alleged shooting and injury of residents in Natunga Village after they questioned crop destruction, have fueled further anger. Community members have presented destroyed crops, such as coffee and bananas, to local leaders, highlighting significant financial losses and the potential inability to repay agricultural loans.
Local leaders are calling for a more consultative approach. Bududa District Chairperson Mr. Geoffrey Natubu emphasized the need for national-level discussions involving affected communities. UWA officials state that approximately 1,500 acres have been encroached upon. They acknowledge that population growth has created challenges and that some boundary markers may have been moved, necessitating a joint effort to re-establish clear boundaries.
Community representatives are urging UWA to prioritize sensitization before conducting operations and to provide clear geographical coordinates for park boundaries to avoid confusion. The Resident District Commissioner, Ms. Juliet Solome Namara, has called for peaceful dialogue to address grievances and ensure communities understand the government’s position.
UWA maintains its mandate to protect the park and has committed to working with local leaders to resolve the issues. However, the demand for compensation for destroyed crops and clear demarcation of park boundaries remains a central point of contention.