NFA commences operation to clear illegal trees from EACOP corridor in Kyankwanzi

The National Forestry Authority (NFA) has launched a forest management operation to remove illegally planted trees from the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) corridor within the Taala Central Forest Reserve, located in Kyankwanzi District.

The NFA emphasizes that this exercise is crucial not only for the successful implementation of the EACOP project but also vital for safeguarding the long-term ecological integrity of Uganda’s treasured forest ecosystems.

The NFA clarified that the land designated for the pipeline route was officially assessed and meticulously mapped in 2018.

Following this, all Project Affected Persons (PAPs) along the corridor were identified, duly compensated for their land and properties, and provided ample time to harvest their crops before voluntarily vacating the designated area.

In line with due process, the NFA itself was also fully compensated for all original trees within the pipeline corridor.

“It must be emphasized that no individual or entity holds a license to plant trees in this corridor,” stated Aldon Walukamba, Communications and Public Relations Manager, National Forestry Authority.

“Any tree planting carried out after the official mapping and compensation exercise in 2018 is illegal, and such trees are subject to removal. This action is therefore a lawful necessity to protect the EACOP right of way and the wider national interest.”

The Authority underscores that the operation aims to ensure the unhindered progress of a critical national infrastructure project while simultaneously upholding environmental laws and preventing unauthorized encroachment on protected forest reserves.

The removal exercise is being conducted in close coordination with the Environmental Police and local leaders. This collaborative approach is designed to ensure that the enforcement is carried out lawfully, fairly, and with full respect for human rights.

NFA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to open and transparent grievance-handling and community engagement mechanisms. The Authority continues to welcome and address concerns through these formal platforms, ensuring fairness and accountability at every step of its operations.

Above all, the NFA remains steadfast in its mission to protect Uganda’s Central Forest Reserves in line with the National Forestry and Tree Planting Act. The Authority acts in the best interest of the people, the environment, and the nation’s future by ensuring that designated areas for national projects are respected and that critical ecosystems are preserved for generations to come.