STATE WINS KUDOS FROM MONZE SETTLERS

NADONGO Community in Moomba ward in Monze District has commended Government for rescinding its decision to evict them from the gazetted forest reserve.

Last year, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources issued an eviction order to people in the local forests, a decision which agitated communities as well as some traditional leaders.

Senior Headman Hakalembe said in Monze that Government’s decision to allow people to live in the forests and call for a collaborative forest management plan was commendable.

He said this during a community engagement meeting held at Nakalwindi community at the weekend

The headman people who had settled in Lusengezi, Nadongo and Nakabwe felt safe now that Government had allowed them to remain in the forest and help in the preservation of the natural resources.

He said the community was ready to work with Government in all efforts aimed at protecting and preserving the three forests.

“We are thrilled by government’s decision to allow us to live in the forests and help in the management of the natural resources so that it benefits us and the future generation.

“We, therefore, stand ready to work with Government to ensure that the forests are protected to counter effects of climate change, which were visible during drought last farming season,” he said.

And Monze District Commissioner (DC) Cyprian Hamanyanga expressed happiness that the local community was ready to work with Government.

Mr Hamanyanga said the positive response from the community was encouraging as it encourage sustainable use of forests and prevent indiscriminate cutting of trees.

“I am happy that you have shown willingness to support us in ensuring that local forests are protected through this collaborative forests management plan which has been hatched by government.

“I would like to encourage other communities to emulate this gesture so that together we can have a Green, and Healthy environment for now and generations to come," he said.