ENTEBBE, Uganda – A controversial decision by the government to allocate 150 acres of the Kitubulu Forest Reserve to a private investor has sparked significant public outcry and political friction.
The deal, reportedly finalized by a senior government official, has drawn sharp criticism from local communities, politicians, and environmental activists who decry the destruction of a vital forest and bird sanctuary.
The matter came to light after it was revealed that the land was leased to a Chinese investor, identified as Paul Zhang. The arrangement has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the transparency and environmental impact of the transaction.
The situation escalated last Friday when a large group of local residents, activists, and leaders gathered at the forest for a tree-planting restoration campaign. The demonstration, organized under the leadership of Entebbe Municipal Mayor, Fabrice Brad Rulinda, served as a powerful display of public dissent against the government’s decision.
The gathering was marked by widespread disapproval, with many attendees expressing confusion and anger over the government’s “tough decision” to hand over the protected area.
The protest has gained political momentum, with local leaders openly challenging the central government. Both Entebbe Mayor Rulinda and Katabi Mayor Kalema Basamurekere have publicly condemned the deal.
“We are protecting the forest, we are not looking for votes,” stated Mayor Rulinda, framing the issue as a matter of principle and environmental stewardship rather than political opportunism.
The primary concerns center on the ecological value of the Kitubulu Forest Reserve. The area is known as a sanctuary for diverse bird species and plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. The decision to convert this protected land for private development has been labeled a significant environmental setback.
As the dust continues to rise, the government faces mounting pressure to address the public’s concerns and provide clarity on the details and justification for the deal. The situation remains tense, with local leaders vowing to continue their campaign to protect the forest reserve.
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