August 2024
Forestry Authority (NFA) Board Chairman, Eng. Dr. Christopher Ebal, officially inaugurated the forest committees of Kalinzu and Kasyoha-Kitomi Central Forest Reserves (CFRs) in Bushenyi District in August 2024. The event, held at Tuzza Hotel in Bushenyi Municipality, was attended by officials from the National Forestry Authority (NFA), technical and political leaders, police and other security officials, and representatives from State House across six districts—Mitooma, Kitagwenda, Bushenyi, Rubirizi, Buhweju, and Ibanda.
In his remarks, Eng. Dr. Ebal emphasized the importance of these committees in safeguarding forest reserves and promoting sustainable management practices. “The establishment of these forest committees marks a significant step towards inclusive governance and community participation in the management of our natural resources,” he stated. “We must work together to ensure that these forests are protected and sustainably managed for the benefit of future generations.”
Eng. Dr. Ebal was accompanied by several management NFA officials, including Acting Executive Director Stuart Maniraguha, Director of Natural Forests Tom Rukundo, Communications and Public Relations Manager Aldon Walukamba, Legal Manager Joseph Kwesiga, and South West Range Manager Charles Sabiiti.
During the ceremony, Eng. Dr. Ebal reiterated the need for a collaborative approach to conservation, calling on the newly formed committees to be vigilant and proactive in preventing illegal activities in the forest reserves.