Uganda’s forest cover declines by 11 per cent – NFA

Uganda’s forest cover has declined drastically over the past three decades, shrinking from 24 per cent (approximately 4,898,335 hectares) in 1990 to the current 12.7 per cent, according to a report by the National Forestry Authority (NFA).

In response to this alarming trend, the NFA has partnered with ATC-Uganda to launch restoration activities in selected forest reserves, starting with the Oruha Forest Reserve in Kyenjojo District.

The Oruha initiative aims to restore 30 hectares of bare land by planting 33,330 trees.

NFA Acting Executive Director, Mr Stuart Maniraguha, emphasised that while Uganda is blessed with numerous forest reserves, many continue to face destruction from encroachment and unsustainable human activity.

“Since 2004, ATC-Uganda has established 50 towers covering 25,000 square metres of land and contributes Shs 2.6 billion in annual revenue. In 2021, we agreed to extend this partnership towards the restoration of degraded forest reserves,” Mr Maniraguha said.

He noted that restoration efforts are crucial for both conservation and national development, adding that Uganda’s tenfold revenue strategy cannot be achieved without forests. “These ecosystems are critical enablers of sustainable growth and resilience,” he emphasised.

The restoration programme supports NFA’s 2020–2025 strategic plan, which aims to raise forest cover in Central Forest Reserves from 43 per cent in 2021 to 59 per cent by 2025. Mr Maniraguha also warned local communities against encroaching on forest reserves, noting that the NFA has marked all reserve boundaries in Kyenjojo District with stone markers.

“Protecting existing forests is just as important as restoring degraded ones. Communities must play their role in safeguarding these vital resources,” he said.

ATC-Uganda CEO, Ms Dorothy Ssemanda, emphasised that the partnership with NFA will expand forest cover across the country to enhance climate resilience and contribute to sustainable development.

“For us, tree planting goes beyond carbon offsetting — it’s about restoring balance to nature, protecting biodiversity, safeguarding water catchments, and building community resilience,” she said.