Brig Gen Keith Katungi, Commander of the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) 5th Infantry Division, has issued a firm warning to charcoal traders in Northern Uganda, stating that those involved in illegal operations will face serious repercussions.
This comes after continued violations of a Presidential directive issued in May 2023, which bans charcoal burning and transportation in the region.
The directive empowers the UPDF to seize vehicles involved in the trade, auction them, and channel the proceeds into the national consolidated fund.
Despite this, some traders have been exploiting loopholes, including bribing local officials and forging documents to bypass enforcement. Some have even gone so far as to rent land specifically for charcoal production in the northern region.
Brig Gen Katungi emphasized the importance of community involvement and urged locals to explore alternative, environmentally friendly business opportunities.
His sentiments were echoed by Capt David Drichi, Regional Internal Security Officer for Lango, who highlighted the challenge posed by corruption in local authorities, which has hindered efforts to curb the illegal trade.
Moses Ogom, a businessman from Lira, had his vehicle impounded on 28th August 2024. He shared that no bribe was requested, and he appealed for leniency while pledging to discontinue his involvement in the charcoal trade.
