State House Bombshell: Museveni Orders Muhoozi To Investigate Top Army Officers As Bugoma Scandal Evaporates!

By Swift Reporter

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to launch an immediate investigation into allegations that some officers of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces are involved in the illegal destruction and degradation of the Bugoma Central Forest Reserve in Kikuube District.

In a formal directive dated February 23, 2026, addressed to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the President expressed concern over reports of widespread deforestation, encroachment, and charcoal burning activities in the forest reserve. He described the situation as urgent and ordered swift action to halt further environmental damage.

Key Directives Issued

The President’s directive outlines several immediate measures:

• Investigation into UPDF involvement: The CDF has been tasked with identifying and holding accountable any military personnel implicated in illegal activities within the forest.
• Transfer of forest protection: The Uganda Wildlife Authority has been ordered to take over full responsibility for protecting Bugoma Forest.
• Eviction of encroachers: All individuals illegally occupying the forest land are to be evicted without exception.
• Possible upgrade to national park status: The government will consider elevating Bugoma to a national park to ensure maximum legal protection.

Rising Environmental Concerns

The directive comes amid growing alarm over the rapid depletion of Bugoma Forest, one of Uganda’s critical ecological assets. The forest plays a vital role as a water catchment area, carbon sink, and biodiversity hub. However, recent reports indicate that large sections have been cleared for logging, agriculture, and charcoal production.

Particularly troubling are claims that individuals entrusted with national security may be complicit in the destruction—raising serious concerns about accountability and enforcement.

If confirmed, the allegations would represent a significant breach of public trust and a threat to Uganda’s environmental sustainability.

The President emphasized that all encroachment on Bugoma is recent and deliberate, noting that the forest previously had no human settlements. He reiterated that the land is government property and must be protected for future generations.

Bugoma Forest is considered crucial not only for conservation but also for climate resilience and sustainable development. Environmental advocates warn that continued degradation could have long-term consequences, including loss of biodiversity, disrupted water systems, and increased vulnerability to climate change.