Musician Eddy Kenzo has defended President Yoweri Museveni’s 2023 charcoal directive, arguing that it is intended to protect Uganda’s forests rather than stop people from accessing cooking fuel.
Kenzo, who describes himself as someone who has experienced poverty, said the directive has been politicised, with some people interpreting it as an order preventing Ugandans from cooking with charcoal.
He argued that uncontrolled tree cutting threatens Uganda’s forest cover, environment and weather patterns, warning that the country risks losing the natural beauty that has earned it the name “Pearl of Africa.”
Kenzo also raised concerns about the health risks associated with charcoal use, urging Ugandans to embrace cleaner cooking alternatives.
Museveni issued Executive Order No. 3 on May 19, 2023, banning charcoal burning and trade in West Nile, Northern Uganda, Karamoja and the Teso sub-region.
However, the directive has faced concerns over the availability and affordability of alternative cooking fuels for households that depend on charcoal.
On October 14, 2026, Parliament Speaker Jacob Oboth suspended enforcement of the ban pending a government report on its implementation and the progress made in providing alternative energy sources. The government was directed to update Parliament on the matter on October 21.
Kenzo’s remarks come amid the ongoing debate over how Uganda can protect its forests while ensuring that ordinary households have access to affordable cooking fuel.
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