NFA arrests own staff in Mabira Forest deforestation crackdown
BUIKWE, March 26, 2025 — The National Forestry Authority [NFA] has arrested three of its own staff members for their involvement in the illegal deforestation of Mabira Forest in Buikwe district along the Kampala-Jinja Highway in Eastern Uganda.
The arrested individuals include Joseph Ecima, a Forest Supervisor in the Namulaba division of the forest, and two patrol officers, David Mwebaze, alias Abdul, and Winston Matsiko.
The trio are accused of conspiring with criminal cartels to illegally cut trees in the forest over an extended period. Their arrest followed a decision by the NFA to conduct unannounced patrols within the forest, in response to reports implicating several staff members in the unauthorised felling of trees for timber, charcoal, and firewood.
Additionally, the NFA uncovered the illegal leasing of forest land for agricultural purposes by various private companies and individuals. According to the NFA, this activity contravenes the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act [NFTPA] 2003.
NFA’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Aldon Walukamba, confirmed the arrests, stating that they followed internal reports implicating the staff members, which prompted the investigation.
“These arrests should send a strong message that illegal deforestation and corruption in forest management will not be tolerated. We encourage citizens to report any suspicious activities via the NFA’s toll-free hotline at 0800264036,” Walukamba said.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Francis Olugu, the Police Liaison Commandant at the NFA, confirmed that the suspects face charges of criminal neglect of duty. Authorities are also considering additional charges under Uganda’s Penal Code Act, Anti-Corruption laws, and the NFTPA.
The NFA has stepped up its enforcement efforts in recent months, arresting at least 68 individuals involved in illegal logging within Mabira Forest. So far, at least 40 of those arrested have been arraigned in court.
Additionally, 29 vehicles transporting illicit timber and charcoal, along with 100 motorcycles and 60 power saws used for illegal tree cutting, have been seized during the same period.
The NFA is also working with the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development to revoke illegal land titles in protected areas. To date, 112 titles have been cancelled, with another 700 under review.
Mabira Forest, covering a total of 29,964 hectares, is a vital ecological asset. It plays a crucial role in climate regulation, water conservation, and biodiversity protection in the eastern and central regions of Uganda. The forest also serves as an important watershed for Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga, and the Nile River system, supporting major rivers and tributaries, including Musamya, Ssezibwa, and Waliga. Due to its proximity to urban and industrial zones, the forest acts as a natural air filter, helping to mitigate the impact of industrial pollution on surrounding communities.
https://thecooperator.news/tayebwa-pledges-to-defend-mabira-forest/
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