26/02/2026
Save Bugoma Forest.
Today, we launched Boundary demarcation exercise of Bugoma forest, a historic and decisive step toward resolving one of the most sensitive and long-standing land matters affecting Bugoma Forest Reserve in Kikuube district.
The forest covers 41.144 hectares which is an equivalent of 158.8 square miles.
In 2016, Hoima Sugar was granted a lawful lease title covering 22 square miles of land for a period of 99 years by Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom. This land is just adjacent to the Bugoma Forest, intended to support agricultural production, create employment, and contribute to socio-economic transformation in the wider Bunyoro sub-region. However, over time, sections of this leased land were encroached upon by unknown individuals, leading to disputes, insecurity, and uncertainty.
At the same time, one of our country’s most valuable natural resources, Bugoma forest has faced increasing pressure and complaints from areas such as Kaseeta, Nsozi, Nyakabaale, and Ngogoli. This forest reserve, which is in Kikuube, Hoima and borders Kagadi, plays a critical role in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate regulation. There have been legitimate concerns raised over illegal encroachment and the degradation of this vital ecosystem.
Equally important, members of the community expressed concerns regarding harassment and uncertainty about the exact location of boundaries separating community land, forest reserve land, and privately leased land. These concerns highlighted a fundamental challenge: the absence of clearly defined and visible boundaries on the ground.
As security, we took proactive steps to address this matter through stakeholder engagement, security assessments, and fact-finding field visits. The District Security Committee confirmed cases of encroachment and noted the urgent need for lawful and technical boundary demarcation.
I commend the leadership of the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Nabakooba Judith , whose timely intervention demonstrated commitment of government to fairness, transparency, and lawful resolution of land disputes. Through her guidance, National Forestry Authority (NFA) survey teams and technical officers were directed to install pillars and she officiated demarcation exercise between Bugoma Forest Reserve and Hoima Sugar Limited’s leased land.
The Bugoma Central Reserve boundary demarcation exercise in Nsozi and Nyaigungu represents not merely a technical activity, but a firm commitment by government and stakeholders to restore clarity, protect lawful rights, conserve our environment, and promote peaceful coexistence.
This demarcation exercise is not intended to disadvantage any party. Rather, it is intended to protect everyone; government resources, private investment, and community rights. It ensures that the forest reserve remains protected, that investors operate within their lawful boundaries, and that communities live and work without fear, confusion, or conflict.
Clear boundaries are essential for peace and development. When boundaries are unclear, disputes arise. When disputes arise, insecurity follows. But when boundaries are properly demarcated and respected, trust is restored, order is maintained, and development can proceed.
As a government, we remain committed to ensuring that the rule of law prevails, that environmental resources are protected, and that investments contribute positively to the well-being of our people. I therefore call upon all stakeholders, community members, investors, security agencies, and government institutions, to respect the demarcated boundaries and to work together in the spirit of cooperation.
Together, we are securing the future of our district and contributing to the prosperity of our Country Uganda.
Thank you.