Communities neighboring Budongo Forest in Buliisa District have been called upon to conserve and protect the forest from depletion.
While addressing the press at a consultative meeting with Biiso Sub County stakeholders and communities held at Biiso community hall, Leo Twinomuhangi, the National Forestry Authority Policy and Planning Coordinator said they were consulting stakeholders from 11 sub counties in Masindi, Buliisa, and Hoima districts neighboring Budongo Forest.
Budongo Forest Reserve covers 8,425 hectares and neighbors the three districts of Masindi, Buliisa, and Hoima
Mr. Twinamuhangi noted that the NFA technical team was collecting grievances from the communities that neighbour the forest and this would be included in the final plan that would later be brought back at the district for validation,corrections and approval.
He however urged communities embrace tree planting at home which would reduce on the continuous encroachment to the forests for firewood and this was supported by Bahikya Muheesi a resident from Sitin A village in Biiso Sub County who also asked fellow community members to plant trees.
Denis Oyewa, the LC3 chairperson Biiso Sub county appreciated the NFA officials for the engagement saying this is the right time to integrate all the views of stakeholders surrounding the Budongo Forest Reserve to determine the future of the forest.
DONDO ALLAN
ONEGA PASCAL
