GURU Fund: Amuru youth strike again

Uganda’s forests are disappearing so fast that in 40 years there will be no more forests in Uganda. State environmental agencies continue to hand over indigenous rainforests for sugarcane plantations, palm oil, and other industrial projects. Citizens in Amuru District took matters into their own hands following continued inaction by government authorities (See tactic: Shame authorities by doing their jobs). 

Amuru Youth Development Forum mobilized 25 young activists to impound vehicles carrying logs to thwart deforestation. 37 trucks have been impounded so far with about 7400 bags of charcoal reappropriated, including 3700 bags redistributed to the local community. This creates a business risk and dissuades loggers from coming into their community. Roadblocks were set up and community members conducted citizens’ arrests. The charcoal business has drastically reduced, and similar tactics have been used in other districts in Uganda such as Adjumani.

The Get Up Rise Up direct action fund was created to support local groups like Amuru's youth who are planning creative direct actions as part of an ongoing campaign.