Mukono District, Uganda –The National Forestry Authority (NFA) has halted an illegal land grading operation in Kifu Central Forest Reserve, located in Mukono District. Acting on a community tip-off, the NFA enforcement team, led by James Mununa, responded swiftly and impounded a tractor (Reg. UBE 463T) that was actively involved in unauthorized land alterations. The tractor is now held at Nagalama Police Station, and its operator, Nkalubo Paul, has been detained under SD 40/04/06/2025.
“We received timely intelligence from the community and moved in quickly to prevent further destruction,” — James Mununa, NFA Enforcement Coordinator.
Legal Context:
The act of grading or altering forest land without permission contravenes the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act (2003), which prohibits any mechanical or physical alterations in protected forest reserves without official authorization.
Community Praised:
NFA spokesperson Aldon Walukamba applauded the local residents for their vigilance and collaborative efforts with the Uganda Police.
“This successful intervention would not have been possible without the support of the surrounding community and the Uganda Police,” — Aldon Walukamba, NFA Communications Manager.
He emphasized that community engagement is central to NFA’s conservation efforts, citing growing public awareness and cooperation as a key success factor.
Next Steps:
Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive and identify any additional individuals involved in the illegal activity. NFA reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on forest encroachment and reiterated its commitment to protecting Uganda’s 506 forest reserves from illegal degradation.
