Location and History
This forest reserve is nestled in the heart of Mayunge district in the Eastern Uganda Region, it was gazette in 1932 covering an area of 97 kilo meters squared (37 square miles) from Kampala its 120 kilometers with altitude range of 1158 to 1334 meters.
Bukalemba Central Forest Reserve occupies almost four villages of Walumbe, Nakalanga, Bukaleba and Namugongo, that lies in the chiefdom of Bunya owns an altitude that ranges from 1158 to 1334 meters.
The government of Uganda in 2019 degazetted some parts of this forest reserve to settle the landless people who were in living in harsh conditions.
Ecology of Bukaleba Central Forest Reserve
This forest reserve was known for a variety of flora and fauna, a home to a unique specie called the encephalartos equatorialis that is not easily found in the other reserves primate species like the vervet monkeys.
Bukalemba Central Forest Reserve also was haven sheltering an impressive 47 birds ‘species such as dusky, long tailed cuckoo, black and white casqued hornbill, African pied, hornbill, Cassin, hawk-eagle, African dwarf kingfisher, parrot, Sabines, spine tail, yellow spotted barbet, yellow throated tinkerbird, wood pecker, black shouldered nightjars, white spotted flufftail among others.
Challenges Faced by Bukaleba Central Forest Reserve
Bukaleba Central Forest Reserve faced challenges of the increased cases of charcoal burning for sale in the urban areas, bad weather condition, fire out breaks, clearance of the land for agriculture by the nearby settlers, bush burning, timber harvesting for local and commercial business, animal grazing among others.
Because of the high rate of destruction this led to increased loss of biological resources, silting of water resources, reduction in the agriculture produce, severe soil erosion hence loss of soil fertility and natural habitat were destructed for the wild species.
On behalf of the Uganda’s government with the ministry of Natural Forestry Authority (NFA) started up a project in 2012 that aimed of planting more trees species using the pine such as the calyptus and Maesoposis Emini tree species the project lasted for about 42 years.
The National Forestry Authority (NFA) also developed the eco-tourism of the site through a number of strategies, such as carrying out bio diversity inventories, demarcating the boundaries and putting of the strict rules and regulations governing the usage of the reserve premises.
When is the Best Time to Visit The Bukalemba Central Forest Reserve
Bukalemba Central Forest Reserve can be visited all year round however mostly good during the dry seasons of June to August and December to February,
Because during these periods the weather is more favorable with less rainfall making the walk in the forest easier.
Lasting Impressions Of Bukalemba Forest Reserve
Bukalemba Central Forest is ranked among Uganda’s rich natural heritage this forest reserve promises an unforgettable experience. as an eco-tourism continues to thrive.
Bukalemba Forest Reserve remains a shining example of how tourism can harmonize with conservation and community development. If you’re planning your next getaway, let this forest reserve charm be your destination.
Bukalemba Forest Reserve offers an ideal retreat for nature lovers, adventurers and those seeking peace. It’s a home far away from home.