UGANDA’S FORESTRY IS AT THE WATCH OF EVERYONE BUT MORE SO GOVERNMENT AUTHORITIES
By Katalikawe William williamkatali@gmail.com Uganda, often celebrated as the "Pearl of Africa," is endowed with an extraordinary array of natural landscapes, ranging from the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains to the expansive waters of Lake Victoria. Historically, these diverse ecosystems were anchored by lush tropical rainforests, fertile woodlands, and sprawling wetlands. These natural habitats have long regulated regional climates, secured clean water catchments, and supported world-renowned biodiversity. However, underneath this picturesque imagery lies a severe ecological emergency. Over the last few decades, Uganda has experienced an alarming rate of deforestation. Rapid population expansion, uncontrolled agricultural displacement, and a heavy reliance on biomass for household energy have combined to strip the landscape of its historical tree cover. This ongoing loss not only threatens iconic wildlife like forest elephants and chimpanzees, but it also alters rainfall patt...