Museveni’s order bites: Acholi intensifies charcoal trade crackdown

21 May 2025, 3:19 pm

By Otim Moses

Leaders in the Acholi subregion have reported a significant decline in charcoal trade for commercial purposes following the executive order issued by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Office of the Prime Minister, through the State Minister for Northern Uganda, convened a meeting with leaders from the Acholi subregion.

The meeting aimed at reviewing the implementation and enforcement of the executive order and to address any challenges or instances of sabotage.

The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Lamwo district, Komakech William, noted that commercial charcoal production in Lamwo has reduced.

However, he raised concerns over continued charcoal importation, particularly from neighboring South Sudan, which remains a major challenge.

Meanwhile, Osbon Ocheng, the RDC of Amuru district, echoed similar sentiments, confirming that while the district has largely managed to control charcoal trade, challenges persist in the Apaa area where illegal commercial charcoal activities continue.

The State Minister for Northern Uganda, Dr. Kenneth Omona, urged the leaders to focus on implementation rather than lamentation.

He called on all political leaders in the region to unite in protecting the environment, sensitising communities on environmental conservation, and promoting sustainable land use for productive purposes.