Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-03 05:36:42
Bugoma Central reserve forest in Kikuube district was once a lush tropical rainforest filled with tall, huge trees. However, the largest part of the forest has now been transformed into a plain area due to ongoing destruction caused by human activities such as lumbering, charcoal burning, and agriculture. As one drives through the villages in Kabwoya and Kyangwali sub-counties where the forest is located, the sight of felled tree logs and plantations of maize, beans, irish potatoes, and sugarcanes now occupying the land where trees once stood is a common occurrence.
The once shaded road from Kyangwali through Nyakabale is now a bare walkway with only small trees remaining, as all the large trees have been cut down. Surprisingly, armed security officers from the army and National Forestry Authority (NFA) are stationed in the forest to protect it from encroachers, yet they are accused of being involved in allowing unauthorized individuals to engage in timber cutting and charcoal burning in exchange for bribes.
The destruction of Bugoma forest goes beyond lumbering and charcoal burning, as trees have also been cleared to make space for gardens. Villagers report that land in the forest is being rented out to individuals by army personnel and NFA officials for agricultural activities, without any official documentation provided. Efforts to save the forest have been met with resistance, with community members facing arrest and imprisonment on various charges.
The Collaborative Forest Management (CFM) established in 2008 aimed to manage the forest jointly with the NFA for the benefit of the community. However, the partnership deteriorated in 2018, leading to restrictions on locals from accessing the forest even for collecting firewood. This has had a significant impact on the residents, with women unable to gather raw materials for handicrafts, and the community facing economic hardships.
The destruction of Bugoma forest has led to human-wildlife conflicts as animals displaced from their habitat now roam into communities, causing damage to gardens. The changing climate patterns and reduced water levels from rivers originating in the forest have added to the challenges faced by the residents. Additionally, as the country prepares for oil extraction in the Bunyoro sub-region, the role of Bugoma forest in absorbing carbon emissions becomes crucial, making its preservation even more imperative.
The community’s livelihoods have been disrupted, with high rates of school dropouts, especially among boys who engage in illegal activities within the forest for quick money. Disturbing reports of rape and defilement of women and girls by outsiders working in the forest have further exacerbated the situation.
Efforts to save the forest include a campaign to plant trees on private land, with over 28,000 trees already planted in adjacent sub-counties. The community urges government support for tree planting initiatives and interventions to assist those affected by the loss of Bugoma forest. Amidst the challenges, the resilience and determination of the residents to protect their environment and livelihoods shine through.
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