A swift operation by the National Forestry Authority (NFA) has thwarted an illegal encroachment attempt in Kifu Central Forest Reserve, located in Mukono District.
The enforcement move comes in response to unauthorized grading and leveling of protected forest land a violation of Uganda’s forest conservation laws.
The operation, spearheaded by James Mununa, the NFA Coordinator of Enforcement, was launched after the authority received a tip-off about suspicious activities within the reserve.
Acting promptly on the intelligence, the NFA team found a tractor, registration number UBE 463T, actively engaged in grading the forest land.
The tractor was immediately impounded and taken to Nagalama Police Station, where it is currently parked. The driver, identified as Nkalubo Paul, was arrested on the spot and is now facing charges of conducting prohibited activities within a forest reserve. He is being held under reference SD 40/04/06/2025 at Nagalama Police Station.
“We received timely intelligence from the community and moved in quickly to prevent further destruction,” said James Mununa, noting that the activity violated the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, which prohibits grading, clearing, or constructing within protected forest areas without authorization.
The National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, 2003, strictly forbids any person from engaging in cultivation, construction, or mechanical land alterations within forest reserves unless they have explicit permission from the NFA.
The authority lauded the local community for playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the forest. Aldon Walukamba, the NFA’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, commended the joint effort that led to the successful intervention.
“This successful intervention would not have been possible without the support of the surrounding community and the Uganda Police. We thank the people who reported this illegal activity and stood in solidarity with NFA in safeguarding Kifu Forest,” said Walukamba.
He further emphasized that the NFA’s ongoing community engagement efforts are bearing fruit.
“Our community engagement approach is yielding results. People are becoming more aware that forests must be protected for the benefit of present and future generations,” he added.
The NFA reaffirmed its dedication to protecting all of Uganda’s 506 forest reserves from illegal activities and environmental degradation.
Investigations are still underway to establish the motives behind the illegal grading and to identify any additional individuals involved.
The authority has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities within forest reserves to help in the fight against deforestation and environmental crime.
