The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) have partnered to train prosecutors and legal officers in a bid to strengthen the handling and prosecution of environmental crimes in Uganda.
The specialised training brings together state attorneys, prosecutors, NEMA legal officers, environmental inspectors and selected police officers involved in environmental investigations. Officials say the initiative is aimed at improving coordination and enhancing the quality of environmental prosecutions.
According to organisers, Uganda continues to face persistent environmental challenges including wetland encroachment, deforestation, pollution and illegal waste disposal, despite having a strong legal framework under the National Environment Act.
Authorities noted that weak handling of scientific evidence, poor coordination among agencies, weak case management and over-reliance on monetary fines have contributed to low conviction rates in environmental cases.
The training is designed to address these gaps by strengthening skills in evidence collection and presentation, improving charge formulation, enhancing investigative coordination and boosting trial preparation. Participants are also being exposed to the use of broader legal remedies such as restoration and rehabilitation orders, in addition to fines.
Officials say the programme also focuses on biodiversity conservation, wetland protection, pollution control and emerging environmental threats, with an emphasis on practical case studies, simulations and expert-led discussions.
NEMA and ODPP officials said the collaboration is intended to ensure more effective enforcement of environmental laws, improved prosecution outcomes and stronger deterrence against environmental degradation.
They added that strengthening the capacity of prosecutors is key to protecting Uganda’s natural resources, safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable development.
The initiative is part of broader government efforts to improve environmental governance and ensure compliance with environmental regulations across the country.