The National Environment Management Authority has announced plans to establish an independent environment court to handle cases related to environmental offences.
According to NEMA Executive Director Barirega Akankwasa, the proposed court will focus specifically on prosecuting environmental violations, a move expected to ease the burden on existing courts that currently handle a backlog of such cases.
The development was revealed during an engagement with development partners held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel, where NEMA also outlined key environmental challenges facing Uganda and explored frameworks for collaboration on climate action and sustainable development.
Dr. Barirega emphasized that the move aligns with renewed enforcement efforts, including the resumption of operations to restore degraded ecosystems across the country. He noted that targeted interventions will be carried out in areas experiencing severe environmental degradation and illegal activities.
Officials say the dedicated court will strengthen enforcement, improve case handling, and enhance accountability for environmental crimes, as Uganda intensifies efforts to protect natural resources.
Over the past three decades, NEMA has implemented several initiatives promoting sustainable environmental management, including projects in critical landscapes such as Kidepo and the Mt. Elgon region.
