Deputy Speaker orders probe into Zhoka forest depletion.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has directed the Committee on Natural Resources to investigate the large-scale depletion of Zhoka Forest, despite a presidential ban on charcoal production in the area.
"This is unacceptable. We need to get to the bottom of this," Tayebwa said, citing a recent exposé on NBS TV's Hard Talk show, hosted by Solomon Sserwanja, which revealed hundreds of trucks ferrying charcoal out of the forest daily.
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Local MPs claim a powerful "godfather" is behind the illicit charcoal trade, flouting presidential directives and threatening the forest's survival. "We know who is behind this, but we can't mention names," said one MP. "This 'godfather' has a lot of influence and is using it to exploit our natural resources."
Tayebwa emphasized the need for urgent action to protect the forest. "We can't let a few individuals destroy our environment for their own gain. We need to take action now."
The Committee on Natural Resources has been tasked with investigating the matter and reporting back to Parliament with findings and recommendations.
As Solomon Sserwanja, host of NBS TV's Hard Talk show, noted, "The depletion of Zhoka Forest is a clear example of how corruption and greed can destroy our natural resources. We need to hold those responsible accountable."
