A fresh directive by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to transfer Bugoma Central Forest Reserve to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has reignited national focus on the future of one of Uganda’s most contested assets.
The order is aimed at stopping further encroachment and reversing years of environmental degradation that have steadily eaten into the forest’s cover.
Bugoma, located in Kikuube District, has in recent years become a flashpoint for conflicts involving conservationists, investors, and local communities.
Under its current custodian, the National Forestry Authority, the forest has faced mounting criticism over enforcement challenges, with illegal logging and land encroachment reportedly continuing despite repeated interventions.
Government insiders suggest the shift to the tourism ministry could pave the way for stricter conservation controls, potentially bringing in the Uganda Wildlife Authority to manage the area under a more protected status.
Such a move could also open opportunities for eco-tourism, positioning Bugoma as a key destination within Uganda’s biodiversity network.
Environmental experts warn that failure to act decisively could lead to irreversible damage. The forest is home to endangered chimpanzees and numerous other species, while also playing a crucial role in regulating climate and supporting water systems in the region.
Although the directive underscores growing urgency within government, the transition process is expected to involve legal and administrative steps before it can take full effect.
Questions remain over how quickly the handover will be implemented and whether it will address long-standing gaps in forest protection.
The latest move adds to a series of government efforts to reclaim and safeguard природal resources, as pressure mounts to ensure sustainable management in the face of competing economic interests.
