EU Commits UGX 165B to Uganda for Forest Conservation and Sustainable Development

The European Union has pledged approximately UGX 165 billion to Uganda in a bid to address the root causes of deforestation and promote sustainable economic development.

The announcement was made during a visit to Uganda by Virginijus Sinkevičius, the EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans, and Fisheries, at State House Uganda on Tuesday.

During his visit, Commissioner Sinkevičius unveiled the launch of €40 million projects under the Forest Partnership, alongside President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and key ministers and EU officials.

These initiatives aim to strengthen efforts to protect forests and promote sustainable land use practices in Uganda.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Commissioner Sinkevičius emphasized the EU's continued support for Uganda's vital coffee sector.

He hailed Uganda's commitment to conservation efforts and highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.

In response, President Museveni welcomed the EU's support and provided input on enhancing the regulation framework.

He emphasized the need for clear distinctions between natural forests, protected areas, and woodlots on private land to ensure that conservation efforts do not hinder development activities.

Additionally, President Museveni advocated for the expansion of the regulation scope to include wetlands, further emphasizing Uganda's commitment to biodiversity conservation and fair benefit-sharing.

President Museveni expressed gratitude to Commissioner Sinkevičius for launching the Forestry programme and reaffirmed Uganda's commitment to working together towards enhancing biodiversity conservation and management.