Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth Oboth has suspended enforcement of the charcoal ban until October 21, 2026, pending a comprehensive government report on the restrictions.
Oboth said the decision was not an endorsement of charcoal use but a response to the difficulties authorities could face enforcing the ban.
“I do that not because I support charcoal [use], but because I am aware of how difficult it is going to be for enforcers,” he said.
The decision comes amid intensified crackdowns on the commercial charcoal trade, particularly in northern Uganda.
Police have also warned motorists against transporting charcoal into Kampala, saying even a single bag could attract enforcement action under Executive Order No. 3 of 2023.
During parliamentary discussions, MPs questioned whether alternatives such as gas were affordable and accessible to ordinary households. Legislators also pointed out that Parliament’s own canteen still uses charcoal, highlighting the practical challenges of enforcing the restrictions.
The government is expected to present its report on October 21, as Parliament considers enforcement challenges and the impact of the ban on communities that rely on charcoal.
