Uganda, May 11 -- The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially taken over the management of Bugoma Central Forest Reserve following years of widespread degradation, encroachment, and criticism that the National Forestry Authority (NFA) had failed to adequately protect the ecosystem.

The takeover was announced on Saturday during a function presided over by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja in Kikuube District.

The move follows a presidential directive transferring management of the forest from NFA under the Ministry of Water and Environment to UWA under the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.

The government says the decision is intended to restore and safeguard one of Uganda's most critical ecosystems after years of destr...