UPDF distributes seized charcoal to communities in Nwoya

Communities in Nwoya District have received charcoal seized from illegal dealers as security agencies combine enforcement with efforts to address the effects of deforestation.

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has distributed charcoal seized from illegal dealers to communities in Nwoya District as security agencies intensify efforts to curb deforestation linked to illegal charcoal production.

The charcoal was distributed to residents of Anaka Town Council and Agungu Village in Purongo Sub-county following a directive by the Commander of the UPDF 4 Infantry Division, Major General Felix Busizoori.

Busizoori said the decision to redistribute the seized charcoal was intended to support communities whose livelihoods and environment have been affected by deforestation caused by illegal charcoal production.

“You are receiving this charcoal because your livelihoods and surroundings have been severely impacted by deforestation driven by illegal dealers,” Busizoori told beneficiaries.

The distribution comes amid growing concern over the environmental impact of illegal logging and charcoal burning, particularly in communities that depend on forests and natural resources for their livelihoods.

Busizoori urged residents to take greater responsibility for protecting forests and other natural ecosystems while calling for stronger cooperation between communities and security agencies to identify and stop illegal charcoal dealers.

He asked residents to provide security agencies with timely information about people involved in illegal logging and charcoal burning.

Busizoori said “timely and actionable information” from communities would help security agencies respond to illegal activities and protect the environment.

The owners of the impounded charcoal were handed over to the Nwoya District Police Commander for prosecution.

The distribution was conducted jointly with local government leaders and senior officers from the Uganda Police Force and the Internal Security Organisation.

The exercise forms part of efforts by security agencies to combine enforcement against illegal charcoal dealers with measures aimed at supporting communities affected by environmental degradation.