By Agness Agilo [ Photo: Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele - Deputy RCC Lira digging the ground for fitting the foundation stone]
The National Forestry Authority has begun the re-demarcation of the boundaries of their land in Lira City East Division.
Speaking to the media today in Lira, Michael Ojah, the Range Manager for Aswa Range, which covers the Lango and Acholi regions, explained that they are re-demarcating the boundaries of the Lira Central Forest Reserve.
Ojah noted that the original boundaries were marked some time ago, but the presence of physical infrastructure has made it difficult to clearly identify the exact lines. The re-demarcation exercise aims to trace and mark the original boundary with pillars.
Ojah emphasized that today’s exercise is strictly about demarcating the 138 hectares of government land and is not intended to evict anyone residing within the forest reserve. He assured that those affected would be engaged in a separate dialogue with authorities to find amicable solutions.
He added that the forest reserve will be developed to create employment opportunities for the youth. Ojah also thanked the leadership of Lira City for their support in ensuring the success of the exercise, though he expressed concern about some individuals encroaching on the area.
On behalf of the Lira City Resident Commissioner, Lawrence Egole, Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele, the deputy RCC spoke about the vision for the forest reserve. He explained that it aims to become a recreational area where people can spend their leisure time, which would also generate income for the residents of Lira City.
Okello Alele encouraged Lira City to diversify its revenue sources, stressing the importance of generating funds beyond government allocations.
He reaffirmed that today's activity is focused on demarcating the boundaries of the 138 hectares of government land under the National Forestry Authority and assured that a subsequent dialogue will take place to explore how the land can be used productively. Okello Alele also cautioned politicians and civil servants against undermining government programs.
Among the areas which have been marked today include; Oil energy petrol station, Abattoir and some parts of Ayago.
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