Prof. Gilbert Balibaseka Bukenya, Senior Presidential Adviser on environmental matters, is spearheading a significant initiative to safeguard the Kitubulu Central Forest Reserve amidst concerns of encroachment. The reserve, spanning 80 hectares, stands as a crucial ecosystem harboring diverse flora and fauna.
In response to alarming reports of illegal land allocations within the reserve, Prof. Bukenya has directed the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, alongside the National Forestry Authority (NFA), to annul six land titles issued dubiously. These titles, belonging to entities such as Megah Industries Uganda Ltd., Deborah Mbabazi, David Hood Mpigi, and Mulkin Enterprises Ltd., have raised serious concerns regarding the integrity of the forest reserve.
During his inspection of the encroached areas within Kitubulu Forest Reserve, Prof. Bukenya emphasized the urgency of conducting a thorough investigation into the origins of these unauthorized land titles. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability, indicating his intent to present pertinent information to President Museveni.
Expressing dismay over the rampant issuance of illegal land titles, Prof. Bukenya condemned the erosion of environmental protections and vowed to pursue legal action against perpetrators. Furthermore, he highlighted the detrimental impact of sand mining on the reserve’s delicate ecosystem, emphasizing the imperative to rehabilitate degraded areas.
Kitubulu Central Forest Reserve, a national treasure, serves as a vital buffer zone near Lake Victoria, filtering pollutants and preserving water quality. Despite its protected status, the reserve has faced escalating degradation due to unchecked human activities, including farming and logging.
In addition to addressing immediate threats, Prof. Bukenya underscored the importance of promoting sustainable practices, such as planting indigenous trees, to mitigate climate change effects. He called for collaborative efforts involving local communities and civil society organizations to restore and safeguard the forest reserve.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by illegal encroachment, stakeholders, including the National Forestry Authority and Ministry of Water and Environment, pledged to intensify restoration efforts and enforce stringent measures to deter further violations.
As Prof. Bukenya leads the charge to preserve Kitubulu Central Forest Reserve, there is a renewed sense of commitment to uphold environmental conservation and protect Uganda’s natural heritage for future generations.
