By Our Reporter
NAMISINDWA
Namukowa Stephen, a resident of Sibanga Village, Bunasambi, was allegedly assaulted on Tuesday evening, 12th August, 2025 by suspected Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) staff attached to the Bunasambi station. The incident happened as he was descending from the national park, where he had gone to harvest mushrooms and medicinal herbs, his well-known and primary source of livelihood.
Namukowa said he was stopped by armed men wearing UWA uniforms, who disarmed him before allegedly beating him, causing bodily harm. He claims this is not the first time he has been mistreated by UWA personnel.
Bwayo Bosco, the NRM chairman for Tsekululu, confirmed the incident and said residents now live in fear of going near the forest for fear of losing their lives. He called on senior leaders to intervene and protect the community.
According to Bosco, Namukowa is currently at home nursing his injuries.
Bwayo Emma, the NRM LCV flagbearer, condemned what he described as the increasing harassment and impunity by UWA staff, calling for urgent intervention from national authorities. He stressed the need for peaceful coexistence between the national park and communities living nearby.
Bwayo added that there are several court orders prohibiting such harassment, with the main suit scheduled to be heard on 24th August at the Mbale High Court. He accused UWA of repeatedly defying these orders by beating people, destroying crops, and intimidating residents. He vowed to legally hold individual UWA staff members personally accountable for their actions.
Bosco Nabboge the Assistant Resident District Commissioner Namisindwa says the matter is under investigation saying UWA management has been notified.
