The Embassy’s support:
a) Review of the Forestry Sector in Uganda
In January 2010 the Embassy was approached by the Minister of Water and Environment to assist the Ministry to do a holistic review of the forestry sector with the main emphasis on why the three main institutions - the Forestry Sector Support Department (FSSD), National Forestry Authority (NFA) and District Forestry Services (DFS) - have not been functioning as expected. The review assessed each institution’s performance as a basis for identifying constraints and making recommendations on improving performance and governance within the current institutional framework. The review also assessed the revised Policy and Act as a basis for effective performance of the sector.
The Review was carried out by LTS International (Mr Sean White) supported by a local consultant. The report will be an important input to the Ministry’s implementation of one of their main undertakings namely “Review, refine and harmonise ENR roles and responsibilities within and outside the ENR institutions by the end of FY 2011/12”.
Click here to go to the Report.
Click here to go to Main Findings.
b) National Forestry Authority (NFA)
Technical and financial support for the establishment of the National Forestry Authority (NFA) has been given since 2004 (NOK 40 mill).
In 2009 Norway prolongued its support for another 4 year period, and increased focus will be on restoration of forest in Northern Uganda. The financial frame of the second phase is NOK 69,9 mill. Because of various mismanagement issues, the direct support to NFA is temporarily suspended.
c) REDD + (R-PP)
Norway, together with the World Bank, has supported the REDD preparation process. The Norwegian support has been used for extended consultation with stakeholder groups and consultancy services to finalise the draft R-PP (REDD Preparedness Plan).
d) Sawlog Production Grant Scheme and Uganda Timber Grower Association
In October 2009 Norway entered into a 4 year agreement with the Sawlog Production Grant Scheme (SPGS), the purpose of which is to stimulate private timber plantations. The financial frame of this agreement is NOK 36 mill. The Norwegian funds will complement the EU funding to SPGS. Norway will also support the Uganda Tree Growers Association (UTGA), and an agreement for this support was signed late 2009. The Norwegian Forest Owner Organisation (Norskog) will have an agreement on institutional cooperation with UTGA.
e) The Mount Elgon Regional Ecosystem Conservation Programme (MERECP)
MERECP is a transboundary programme for sustainable management of protected areas and poverty eradication through promotion of alternative income opportunities for the local population, focusing on both the Ugandan and Kenyan side of the Mountain. It is built on longstanding experience on sustainable natural resource management of the protected areas on Mount Elgon, Uganda. The programme is implemented within the framework of East African Community (EAC) and through the Lake Victoria Basin Commission. End review 2011