In northern Uganda, the illegal charcoal trade Uganda continues despite government efforts to curb it. Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) have accused UPDF soldiers and police officers of facilitating the trade, ignoring President Museveni’s directive to end it.
In May 2023, President Museveni issued Executive Order No. 3, banning the commercial production and trade of charcoal. The order aimed to reduce deforestation, curb illegal cattle grazing, and address cattle rustling. In response, the government deployed UPDF soldiers at key roadblocks, while environmental protection police focused on stopping illegal tree cutting, particularly of endangered species like the shea tree.
However, RDCs have raised concerns about the effectiveness of enforcement. They argue that security officers, instead of stopping the trade, have allowed it to continue. One RDC, preferring to remain anonymous, explained that UPDF soldiers let large trucks carrying charcoal pass through roadblocks. At the same time, they targeted smaller vehicles and extorted money from motorcycle riders carrying small amounts of charcoal.
RDC Francis Okello Odoki questioned the effectiveness of the enforcement process. He asked, “Is money exchanging hands? Are we doing our work?” Okello emphasized that transparency is crucial, highlighting the concerns about corruption within the enforcement system. Without transparency, enforcement will continue to struggle.
Similarly, Geoffrey Okiswa, RDC for Alebtong, raised concerns about the disposal of impounded charcoal, claiming that higher authorities sometimes intervened and ordered the release of confiscated charcoal. “We are sometimes told to release confiscated charcoal,” Okiswa explained. This interference, he said, weakens enforcement efforts and undermines the government’s actions.
Isaac Ocen Otim, assistant RDC for Dokolo, pointed out confusion about enforcement roles, leading to delays. In April 2025, the UPDF 5th Division impounded nine trucks carrying large amounts of charcoal. However, authorities have not yet provided clear instructions on handling the confiscated goods.
Local leaders are calling for renewed political will, greater accountability, and stronger enforcement to tackle the illegal charcoal trade Uganda. Without these actions, the trade will continue to harm the environment and hinder efforts to protect it.
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