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Locals accuse Uganda Wildlife Authority for using harsh enforcement methods in Namisindwa.

17 January, 2024
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The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are on the spot for continuous harassment and destruction of properties belonging to people living near Mt. Elgon National Park.


UWA accuses residents of encroaching on national park land while the residents blame UWA and UPDF for harassment and destruction of their property. Michael Masika a resident of Bunamulinyi parish, claims UWA officials destroyed his two-acre banana plantation and other crops. According to Masika, UWA officials forced him to sign an unknown document under duress, threatening further destruction if he refused to comply.

David Timbiti another victim says his onion garden was destroyed by UWA officials after he declined to sign some documents. Timbiti says he has not gotten support from Namisindwa District officials despite logging a complaint.

Emma Bwayo, the Namisindwa District Youth Councilor has blamed UWA for defying court orders saying he plans to take legal action against them. Bwayo says there is a 2005 interim order by Mbale High Court which stopped UWA from evicting or damaging crops.

But Samuel Amanya, the Chief Warden for Mt Elgon Conservation Area says the ongoing operation does not intend to harm or destroy property. Amanya the operation aims at identifying and profiling people cultivating within the park. 

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