Authorities in Agago district have arrested three people and seized 82 bags of charcoal in a crackdown on the destruction of indigenous shea nut trees, as the district intensifies efforts to curb illegal charcoal production.

The suspects were arrested in Parabongo dub-county following intelligence gathered on the ground, according to local leaders, who say much of the charcoal produced in the area is transported to Lira City for sale.

The operation was led by Agago Assistant Resident District Commissioner Oweka John Bostify, working with Parabongo Sub-county LCIII chairperson Samuel Ocen and Ker Kal Otongo cultural leader Rwot Kasimiro Ongom.

The recovered charcoal was taken to Parabongo sub-county headquarters. Ocen said the arrests followed information gathered by local leaders about people involved in cutting down indigenous shea nut trees for charcoal production.

He said the operation would continue, warning that those involved in the illegal activity would be arrested, including vehicle owners transporting charcoal.

Ocen said authorities intended to tax vehicle owners involved in the transportation of charcoal, with the money collected being treated as revenue for the sub-county.

He urged residents to desist from destroying indigenous trees, saying the enforcement operation was aimed at protecting the environment and safeguarding natural resources.

13 charcoal dealers remanded

Oweka said 13 charcoal dealers in Agago district had been remanded since the beginning of 2026 as authorities intensified enforcement against illegal charcoal production.

He said the district would continue with the operation for one month, targeting individuals involved in cutting down trees and producing charcoal. Oweka identified Parabongo, Wol, Kotomor, Adilang and Lukole sub-counties as areas experiencing rampant charcoal burning.

He said authorities were determined to address the destruction of trees in the affected areas and urged residents to cooperate with enforcement teams.

The Assistant RDC warned that the operation would target all those involved in the charcoal trade, including individuals facilitating the transportation and distribution of the products.

The latest arrests come amid growing concern over the depletion of indigenous tree species in northern Uganda, where charcoal production remains an important source of income for some households.

Government restrictions

In May 2023, President Yoweri Museveni issued Executive Order No. 3, restricting charcoal burning and trade in northern Uganda, West Nile, Karamoja and the Teso sub-region as part of measures to address environmental degradation.

The directive sought to curb destructive tree harvesting and commercial charcoal production, particularly activities contributing to the depletion of natural forest resources.

The National Forestry and Tree Planting Act, 2003, also provides for the protection and conservation of forests. The law restricts unauthorised activities involving forest produce in protected forest areas and provides penalties for offences involving illegal harvesting and destruction of forest resources.

However, enforcement of charcoal restrictions has attracted debate over the availability and affordability of alternative cooking fuels for households that depend on charcoal and firewood.

In October 2026, Parliament temporarily suspended enforcement of the charcoal ban pending a government statement on the policy and measures to promote alternative energy sources.

Cultural leaders join conservation efforts

Ongom commended Oweka for his involvement in efforts to address environmental destruction in the district.

Ongom, who referred to the Assistant RDC as the “Balaam of Agago”, said he had previously heard about his work but had witnessed his commitment firsthand during the operation.

He encouraged Oweka to remain firm in protecting the environment despite possible opposition and challenges. Ongom also recognised the role of Parabongo sub-county leaders in the conservation campaign, urging residents to participate in protecting trees and other natural resources.

He said environmental protection should not be left to government officials alone, adding that communities had a responsibility to safeguard the environment for future generations.

Shea nut trees are indigenous to northern Uganda and provide communities with food, income and other livelihood benefits. Their destruction for charcoal production raises concerns about the loss of valuable natural resources.

The operation in Parabongo highlights the continuing challenge of balancing environmental conservation, enforcement of existing restrictions and the livelihoods of communities.

Authorities had not provided the identities of the three suspects, the specific charges they face or whether they had been taken to court by the time of publication.