Mwebembezi Fred
NTOROKO.
The Uganda Wild life Authority (UWA) has signed the memorandum of understanding with the people of Nyakatoke parish, Nombe sub county Ntoroko district on how to use natural resources in Rwenzori mountain national park.
This follows a request letter written on 22nd April 2016 to UWA by the community members seeking the authorities to allow them use the forests to get materials for crafts and building.
The MoU was singed on Monday by UWA officials and Nyakatoke parish communities at Nyakatoke primary school.
Mr.Okware James the senior warden Rwenzori Mountains National Park revealed that they have granted the communities permission to use the park resources but warned them against destruction.
He asked them to ensure protection of the park and report any persons found mismanaging the park.
Okware promised that they would create a traditional path that links them to kasese with the aim of reducing travel expenses.
Mr. Businge George the warden Rwenzori National Park however asked the people to utilize the park for firewood, medicine herbs, mushrooms, fruits, bamboo among other resources but warned against exploitation noting they can only use the park seasonally.
Businge further cautioned people against poaching, lumbering, burning charcoal in national park that they risk arrest and prosecution in courts of law.
Talking to the residents of Nyakatoke parish, mr.kabagambe Francis and the secretary for production and environment for Ntoroko mrs.Bahati Jessica revealed that this would give them a chance to fight the wrong doers in the national park and will promote effective protection to the park.