NFA, Centenary Bank launch restoration of forest in Masindi

Masindi: The National Forestry Authority (NFA), in collaboration with Centenary Bank, has officially launched the restoration of the Masindi Plantation Forest Reserve, also known as the Nyangahya Forest Reserve.

This initiative marks a significant step in efforts to combat deforestation and environmental degradation in the region.

The 39-hectare forest reserve, which spans parts of Kihande 2, Nyangahya, and Western Cell in Masindi Municipality, is set to receive a Shs60 million investment over the next three years.

The funds will support tree planting and maintenance until the saplings are mature enough typically by age three to thrive independently.

The launch ceremony, held on Friday, May 9, 2025, in Nyangahya Cell, was presided over by Rt. Hon. Andrew Byakutaga, Prime Minister of the Bunyoro Kingdom.

He commended the partnership, describing it as aligned with the Kingdom’s strategic goals of natural resource management and sustainable development.

“Forests are not just trees, they are living symbols of our heritage, sanctuaries for wildlife, and essential buffers against the effects of climate change,” Byakutaga stated. “They provide water security, medicine, tourism potential, and spiritual and cultural inspiration for our people.”

Byakutaga further emphasized the importance of community involvement in restoration efforts and urged youth, leaders, and local businesses to be at the forefront of conservation.

James Katamba, Centenary Bank’s Regional Manager for Western Uganda, affirmed the bank’s dedication to environmental restoration and thanked the NFA for partnering with them.

“Masindi is our tree planting destination for the year. We are committed to working with NFA and local communities to ensure that the planted trees not only grow but are sustained for future generations,” Katamba noted.

Stuart Maniraguha, Acting Executive Director of NFA, underscored the urgency of the initiative, citing prior threats to the forest from illegal bricklaying, charcoal burning, and encroachment.

“Our partnership with Centenary Bank, signed on April 16, 2025, signals the beginning of serious restoration work. However, for this to succeed, we must engage surrounding communities and promote alternative income-generating activities to reduce pressure on the forest,” Maniraguha said.

He also announced plans to transform the restored area into an ecotourism site, which would provide income to the Kingdom, Masindi Municipality, NFA, and local communities through cultural showcases and nature tourism.

Boaz Besigirenda, Range Manager for Budongo under NFA, noted that the forest had suffered significant damage due to charcoal production and subsistence farming. He praised Centenary Bank for stepping in at a crucial time to support the recovery of the forest, which he described as vital for regulating temperatures, reducing floods, and serving as a water reservoir.

Isaac Bongomin, LC3 Chairperson for Central Division, commended the restoration efforts and highlighted the importance of protecting medicinal trees for future generations. He called on illegal settlers to vacate the demarcated forest reserve land.

Elizabeth Kakoko, LC1 Chairperson for Nyangahya Cell, thanked Centenary Bank and NFA for their efforts and requested proper demarcation of paths and boundaries to prevent further encroachment.

Aldon Walukamba, NFA spokesperson, shared that the Masindi Plantation Forest Reserve was first surveyed in 1934 and officially demarcated in 1948.

However, due to continued encroachment, boundary reopening was conducted in 2003, and encroachers were removed.

“This project is not just about planting trees, it’s about restoring our shared future. When we protect forests, we protect ourselves,” Walukamba said.

Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.