Uganda’s Forests: A Vital Resource Under Threat
The Importance of Uganda’s Forests
Forests cover approximately 11.5% of Uganda’s land area, serving as a cornerstone for the nation’s ecosystem. They provide essential resources, including timber, food, fuel, and medicines, crucial for many Ugandan communities. However, these vital green spaces are facing alarming threats.
Alarming Rates of Deforestation
Recent data from Global Forest Watch reveals a staggering loss of 37,600 hectares of natural forests in Uganda in 2023 alone. If this alarming trend continues, it could result in the irreversible loss of these important ecosystems and the diverse species that inhabit them. This loss poses a serious threat to livelihoods, particularly for local communities that depend on forests for everyday necessities.
Local Voices Highlighting the Crisis
In Buwala village, Jinja District, local resident Bangazi Edward expresses the growing challenges: “We are having a problem with firewood because we have few trees, and the population is really big.” This quote showcases the immediate impacts of deforestation, underscoring an urgent need for sustainable strategies.
Government Initiatives for Sustainability
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Uganda is actively pursuing policies aimed at sustainable public procurement. This strategic initiative seeks not only to safeguard the environment but also to fulfill the country’s climate commitments.
A Focus on Sustainable Development
The Ugandan government is committed to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 12, particularly Target 12.7, which advocates for sustainable public procurement aligned with national objectives. Lawrence Semakula, Accountant General in the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, states, “We have developed a national action plan for sustainable procurement, which we are integrating into the government procurement cycle.” This plan aims to weave sustainability into the fabric of public procurement processes, thereby minimizing environmental impacts of development projects.
Responsible Procurement in Action
As Uganda faces these environmental challenges, there’s a ray of hope in responsible procurement practices. One standout example is the Adrift Eco Lodge, located near the stunning Kalagala Falls on the Nile River. Constructed using 70% FSC-certified timber sourced from the Busoga Forest Company, the lodge exemplifies how sustainable building practices can be implemented. Leanne Haigh, CEO of Adrift, remarked, “For us, it was a no-brainer about how we were going to build this property; procuring FSC sustainable wood was just part of that process.”
Scaling Sustainable Practices
Annah Agasha, Deputy Director of FSC Africa, emphasizes the potential for scaling responsible sourcing practices in Uganda. She notes, "Adrift’s use of certified timber from Green Resources to build their ecolodge is a significant milestone.” This demonstrates how businesses can align their operations with sustainability goals, further enhancing their reputation.
Busoga Forestry Company: Leading the Way
The Busoga Forestry Company Ltd. is pivotal in promoting sustainable forest management and increasing the supply of responsibly sourced timber products in Uganda. With the attainment of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody and Forest Management Certificates in 2019 and 2020, BFC ensures that its practices are both responsible and traceable. These certifications guarantee the sustainable management of forests and the ethical sourcing of timber.
Economic and Social Impact
The impact of BFC extends beyond responsible sourcing. The company employs around 900 individuals, primarily from local communities, thus directly influencing the livelihoods of over 16,000 individuals. Through social initiatives, BFC invests in essential infrastructure such as schools, clinics, and clean water projects, improving local living standards significantly. Educational programs and training opportunities empower individuals, while gender equality is promoted, with women comprising 32% of the workforce.
Promoting Legal Forestry
David Kiyingi Nyimbwa, Commissioner of the Procurement Policy and Management Department, believes that FSC certification plays a crucial role in legal forestry practices. He states, “With FSC, we believe we can work together to promote legal forests and help in the registration of potential and actual [sustainability wood product] providers.”
The Road Ahead for Uganda
The advantages of responsible forestry extend beyond environmental safeguards. They have the potential to transform the lives of local communities significantly. As Uganda navigates its path toward economic development, the careful management of forest resources will be key. By prioritizing responsible procurement and wise sourcing practices, Uganda can work toward a sustainable future that benefits both the environment and its people.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.
