Pader residents cautioned as bush burning looms in dry season

29 December 2025, 16:26

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

As the dry season intensifies in Pader District, authorities are warning residents about the dangers of bush burning.

Traditionally used to clear land for farming, hunting, or regenerating grazing fields, bush burning is expected to increase during this period.

However, local leaders, health officials, and cultural authorities caution that uncontrolled fires could have devastating consequences for communities, agriculture, and the environment.

Odongkara Danish, a resident of Oyeyeng Village, Ogom Parish, and the Local Council I Chairperson, explains that while bush burning is common, the frequency and scale of fires have increased compared to previous years.

“Some people burn land for farming, others for hunting, and some to prepare grazing areas for livestock. But uncontrolled fires are destroying soil fertility, killing essential soil organisms, and reducing crop yields,” he notes.

Farmers are particularly affected, as seedlings often fail to survive in burnt areas, threatening food security during the dry season.

Akello Irene, Youth Leader of Ogom Sub-county, highlights the impact on women. Bush burning may clear grazing land and save time when collecting firewood, but it also destroys second-season crops, grass for building traditional thatched houses, and, in extreme cases, entire homes.

She notes that community sensitization efforts by local leaders are beginning to reduce reckless burning, but cautions that vigilance is needed this season.

Paul Oola Komakech, Pader District Health Educator and In-charge of Pader Health Centre III, explains that smoke from bush fires releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic gases.

“Short-term exposure causes coughing, itchy eyes, sore throats, and worsens asthma and heart conditions. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, strokes, heart disease, and cognitive impairment, while also affecting fetal development,” he warns.

Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing conditions are especially vulnerable.

Even household fires from firewood contribute to air pollution, highlighting the importance of using well-dried wood and ventilated kitchens.

Mr. Martine Okello, Pader District Forest Officer, says that bush burning destroys wildlife habitats, kills animals like rodents, snakes, and insects, degrades soil, increases erosion, and reduces water retention.

Indigenous trees, such as the shea nut tree, are damaged, affecting flowering and regeneration.

Fires also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change and unpredictable weather in the district.

To prevent disasters, Pader District has established a fire management unit and plans to roll out village-level committees.

Bush burning is a punishable offence under Ugandan law, and offenders risk fines or imprisonment.

Sensitization campaigns are being conducted at public gatherings to educate residents about the dangers of uncontrolled fires and the legal consequences of environmental destruction.

John Peko Lugai II, the Palwo Clan Chief and Chairperson of all Clan Chiefs in Pader, reminds residents that Acholi traditions never allowed random fires.

Historically, bush burning was done carefully after harvest to protect homes or prepare grazing land.

Today, reckless burning contributes to rising temperatures, low rainfall, and environmental degradation.

Traditional sanctions exist for those who violate these norms, underscoring the seriousness of uncontrolled fires.

As the dry season continues, residents of Pader District are urged to exercise extreme caution.

Authorities, cultural leaders, and health experts all stress that fires must be managed responsibly to protect homes, crops, wildlife, and human health.

Uncontrolled bush burning is no longer a minor concern; it is a danger that threatens the district’s environment, livelihoods, and future generations.