Matiri Central Forest Reserve

Once upon a time, in the heart of the African continent, there lay a hidden gem. A place of tranquility, teeming with life and echoing with the whispers of the wild. This is the story of the Matiri Central Forest Reserve, a protected tropical forest reserve nestled in the Kyenjojo district of western Uganda.

Location and Size

The Matiri Central Forest Reserve spans an area of 64 square kilometers, making it one of the few surviving natural forest reserves in the Tooro region. It’s located in the Muzizi River Catchment and the Albertine rift region, with the estimated terrain elevation above sea level being 1020 meters.

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Conservation Status

The forest reserve was gazetted in 1962 and reconfirmed in 1998 by the Forest Reserves Declaration Order of 1998. In 2023, the Ugandan government partnered with the World Bank to mitigate forest cover loss in twenty-eight forest reserves, including Matiri Central Forest Reserve.

Threats to the Reserve

Despite its protected status, Matiri is surrounded by a high human population density, and activities like agriculture are increasing. Several hectares of forest cover have been cleared for human settlement, agriculture, timber, and charcoal. Human activity has also threatened key species, including the endangered Red Colobus.

The Elephant Corridor

One of the unique features of Matiri is that it forms part of the renowned elephant corridor. This corridor attracts hundreds of tourists each year, adding to the economic value of the reserve.

The Mukonomura Enclave

A significant threat to Matiri forest comes from a private piece of mailo land known as the Mukonomura enclave. The 518-hectare enclave is separated into two plots, with plot 193 belonging to the Tooro kingdom and plot 194 belonging to Christine Knops Aliganyira. The land, which has multiple tenants, serves as a springboard for forest encroachment.

Eviction of Encroachers

In 2014, the High Court in Fort Portal ordered more than 200 families to vacate Matiri Central Forest Reserve. The Court further ordered a halt to all human activities such as farming and charcoal burning in the forest. Most of the encroachers live in the communities of Bwesese, Kyabanengo, Kidukuru, and Mukonomura.

Conclusion

The Matiri Central Forest Reserve is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Despite the challenges, the reserve continues to thrive, providing a safe haven for wildlife and a source of pride for the nation. As we look to the future, the story of Matiri serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human progress and environmental conservation.