Oyet made the appeal during the Regional Accountability Forum organized by civil society organization Riamiriam, responding to concerns about the growing charcoal trade and uncontrolled tree cutting for firewood, which are driving environmental degradation in Karamoja.
“A well-crafted by-law will help regulate tree cutting for charcoal and firewood because the penalties it outlines can hold offenders accountable,” Oyet said.
He emphasized that without strong local legislation, efforts to protect the environment will remain ineffective.
The forum convened a wide range of stakeholders, including media representatives, the IG, District Public Accounts Committees, women leaders, Chief Administrative Officers, civil society organizations, and local leaders.
Participants agreed that restoring Karamoja’s environment requires not only enforcement but also community sensitization and stronger collaboration among government institutions, traditional leaders, and local communities.