On the 15th 0f August 2024, Members of the Production Committee happened to visit Bugooma Jungle Lodge, a key district partner and investor nestled in the heart of the lush Bugooma Jungle.
This visit marked a significant step towards strengthening ties and addressing crucial issues surrounding social corporate responsibility, revenue distribution and Environmental Restoration Programs.
Upon arrival, the committee was welcomed by the management team of Bugooma Jungle Lodge led by their Manager.
The lodge, renowned for its commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation, served as an ideal setting for these important discussions.
Anatole Byaruhanga the Manager Bugooma Jungle Lodges revealed that the entire investment sits on 49 acres of land hosting both the hotel and the artificial forest.
He added that under the Social Corporate Responsibility (SCR)
They have so far promoted the bee keeping business in the area by supporting the bee farmers with BeeHives and also creating market opportunities by buying the same honey..
He also said that they usually buy wax from them and sun flower too
He added that they have also promoted the Education Programs by supporting students in different schools with basaries
He added that they have even constructed sanitary facilities in schools in kabwooya
However he highlighted some of the challenges there facing which include;
the forest encroachers, Poachers, those depleting the forest by carrying out Deforestation among others.
They also requested the District to engage one of their neighbours and land owner Hajji Mustafa Zaidi-MZ to accept them allow Tourists to also tour in his nearby forest which has tourist attractions like Chimpanzees hence a source of income.
Hon Tumwesige Nestori the secretary for Production and Natural Resources appreciated the Bugooma Jungle lodges for choosing to invest in Kikuube
He also appreciated them for the peaceful co-existence and for also supporting the local community.
He also appreciated them for the good education
programs, healthcare access, and job opportunities for local residents.
He however promised that the District will intervene on the issue of investor Mzs land and it will engage him in order to create a good working relationship and also enhance local Revenue.
The Clerk to Council Abitekaniza Kiva Francis who was also sitting in for the CAO appreciated the Bugooma Jungle Proprietors for keeping the zeal of conservation and promoting eco- tourism
He appreciated them for the good working relationship with the District and also requested them to freely disclose the amount of revenue they have been paying to the district.
He further called upon them to ensure that their at peace with the Sorrounding Community to enable a peaceful coexistence He finally pledged total support and cooperation from District .
The team also visited Kimbugu Primary School and St Anatole Karama all in Kabwooya Subcounty to check on the component of Environmental Greening were by the schools were given trees for planting in a bid to restore the Environment