Katunguru Restoration Project

The project aims to restore 791 hectares of degraded land in the north-eastern section of Kibale National Park, Uganda. Following heavy encroachment in the past century, the area was abandoned but natural forest regeneration remains severely constrained by elephant grass and recurring fires. Without active intervention, forest recovery would not occur. The project site is located in the mid-eastern part of Kibale National Park in Kyenjojo District, Western Uganda, and borders communities largely dependent on smallholder agriculture and affected by land scarcity, human–wildlife conflict, and pressure on natural resources. Restoration will focus on active reforestation using indigenous tree species, including nursery establishment, seedling production and planting, weeding, fire prevention, patrolling, and long-term maintenance. Community members will be engaged through employment opportunities. Complementary activities will address human–wildlife conflict, support alternative livelihoods such as beekeeping, piggery, and agroforestry, and promote environmental awareness. Without the project, the area would remain dominated by elephant grass and frequent fires, resulting in low car