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Zoka Forest Reserve: A microcosm of a Global South environmental challenge
Ronald Nampura
What you need to know:
…rights defenders are taking steps to challenge the actions of those who have overtime degraded the forest through their illegal logging and now setting up of business interests...
In the heart of northern Uganda’s Adjumani District lies the once-thriving Zoka Forest Reserve covering 1,259-hectare, a beacon of biodiversity and cultural heritage. Zoka Forest Reserve has been a cornerstone of Adjumani District for generations, providing sustenance, spiritual significance, and a sense of identity to the surrounding communities in Itirikwa and Ukusijoni sub-counties.
Sadly, the once-pristine forest has fallen victim to rapid degradation due to illegal logging, unsustainable agricultural practices, abetment of the ongoing eco-cide by government bigwigs and the unresolved Apaa land question. The delicate balance that sustained this ecosystem has been destroyed by illegal activities like construction of fuel stations in its proximity, leading to loss of biodiversity, and altered weather patterns, which has exacerbated the climate crisis. Deforestation has exposed the region to climate extremes, resulting in floods and droughts that threaten the livelihoods of local farmers and worsen food insecurity.
The alarming degradation of this vital ecosystem has highlighted a disheartening trend across the Global South, where environmental deterioration is increasingly violating the basic human rights of local communities and the refugee population.
The loss of biodiversity also threatens their access to traditional sources of food, breathable air and medicine. Displacement due to environmental changes further compounds the vulnerability of already marginalised groups.
The story of Zoka Forest Reserve is both a microcosm of the larger global crisis and a call to action now and its plight is not an isolated incident. Across the Global South, similar scenarios are unfolding, as vital ecosystems crumble under the weight of exploitation and climate change. From the Amazon rainforest to the Congo
Basin, indigenous and local communities are paying the price for environmental degradation, facing violations of their rights, loss of cultural heritage, and diminishing livelihoods.
Addressing the degradation of Zoka Forest Reserve and similar ecosystems requires a comprehensive approach that considers both environmental restoration and human rights protection.
Collaborative efforts between governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities are essential. Implementing sustainable land-use practices, providing alternative livelihood options, and empowering local communities to participate in decision-making processes can help restore balance and ensure the protection of human rights.
As nations strive to achieve sustainable development goals, it is imperative that they prioritise the well-being of both their environments and their citizens.
Environmental Human Rights Defenders are taking steps to challenge the actions of those who have overtime degraded the forest through their illegal logging and now setting up of business interests that further threaten the ecosystem through litigation.
It’s a tall order challenging power but unfortunately it’s the only option that places us on the side of affected communities. In the face of the unfolding environmental crisis, the fate of Zoka Forest Reserve is a reminder that the Global South’s struggle is a shared struggle.
Mr Ronald Nampura is an Advocate of the High Court and Litigation Associate-Green Deal Uganda [email protected]
