By Talemwa John Bosco
In Masindi——
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The Executive Director of the National Forestry Authority (NFA), Mr. Maniraguha Stuart, paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, Owek. Andrew Byakutaga Ateenyi.
The Prime Minister warmly welcomed Mr. Stuart and his delegation to the Kingdom and shared insights into Bunyoro-Kitara’s long-standing history of conservation and forest management.
He emphasized that, since the time of their forefathers, the Kingdom has protected its forests not only for ecological reasons but also because they are home to important cultural totems.
However, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the increasing deforestation within the Kingdom, much of which, he noted needs restoration programs and community sensitization.
He commended the Authority’s recent restoration initiative, particularly the reforestation program starting with Nyangahya Forest in Masindi, scheduled for Friday.
Owek. Byakutaga urged the NFA to prioritize resolving land issues related to forests giving an example of Kugulya-Masindi where locals are against NFA and further guided that NFA engages the locals and provide them with the right information, noting that an informed community is better to work closely with.
He concluded by inviting the Executive Director and his team to the upcoming 31st Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Omukama Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, which will take place on June 11, 2025, at Rukurato Gardens.
Pre-coronation activities will include the Empango Run, a native food festival, a business expo, thanksgiving prayers,golf tournament, Omujaato, and the launch of the 31st Coronation Anniversary Magazine.
In his remarks, Mr. Stuart thanked the Prime Minister for the warm reception and applauded his transformative leadership of the Kingdom.
He asked the Prime Minister to convey his sincere appreciation to His Majesty, the Omukama for his able leadership for the last 31years.
He expressed appreciation to the premier for the guidance provided on matters concerning land and forest management.
Mr. Stuart proposed a stronger partnership between NFA and the Kingdom to jointly address key issues raised during the meeting.
He also updated the Prime Minister on the progress and challenges facing the Authority.
The NFA Executive Director expressed gratitude to the Premier for agreeing to grace the the official launch of replanting Nyangahya forest in Masindi, as a guest of honour, scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025.
He concluded by pledging his full support for the upcoming 31st coronation anniversary.
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