Leaders in the Acholi sub-region have reported a significant decline in charcoal trade for commercial purposes following the executive order issued by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Office of the Prime Minister, through the State Minister for Northern Uganda, convened a meeting with leaders from the Acholi sub-region.
The meeting aimed to review the implementation and enforcement of the executive order and to address any challenges or instances of sabotage.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Lamwo District, Komakech William, noted that commercial charcoal production in Lamwo has reduced.
However, he raised concerns over continued charcoal importation, particularly from neighboring South Sudan, which remains a major challenge.
Komakech urged local leaders to take a more proactive role in curbing illegal charcoal activities, rather than relying solely on security personnel at checkpoints to enforce compliance.
In his remarks, Hon. Lakony Michael, LC5 Chairperson of Amuru District, stated that Amuru has successfully controlled 98% of commercial charcoal activities. Nevertheless, he appealed for tighter security measures at checkpoints and stronger enforcement mechanisms.
Meanwhile, Osbon Ocheng, the RDC of Amuru District, echoed similar sentiments, confirming that while the district has largely managed to control charcoal trade, challenges persist in the Apaa area where illegal commercial charcoal activities continue.
He called upon political and local leaders to collaborate closely with district officials and security agencies to completely eliminate commercial charcoal trading in the region.
The State Minister for Northern Uganda, Dr. Kenneth Omona, urged the leaders to focus on implementation rather than lamentation.
He called on all political leaders in the region to unite in protecting the environment, sensitizing communities on environmental conservation, and promoting sustainable land use for productive purposes.
The Source Reports.
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