Agago Assistant RDC Issues Stern Warning Against Uncontrolled Bush Burning.
By Okidi Patrick
AGAGO, UGANDA – November 27, 2025 – The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Agago, Oweka John Bostify, has issued a strong cautionary warning to residents against uncontrolled bush burning, which he says threatens unharvested crops and the environment. He also cautioned against the increasing trend of crop theft, particularly simsim, vowing tough action against perpetrators.
Speaking to our reporter in a telephone interview from the Agago district headquarters, RDC Oweka expressed alarm at the persistence of bush burning practices during the current dry season.
“Many people continue to burn bushes indiscriminately during this dry spell, without considering the devastating impact it has on our farmers,” Oweka stated. He highlighted that numerous farmers still have valuable crops such as simsim (sesame), sorghum, and cowpeas awaiting harvest in their gardens, making them highly vulnerable to destructive fires.
The Assistant RDC emphasized that uncontrolled fires not only lead to significant economic losses for farmers by destroying their produce but also degrade soil fertility, destroy natural habitats, and contribute to air pollution. He urged residents to exercise extreme caution and responsibility, especially as the dry season intensifies.
Beyond environmental concerns, RDC Oweka also turned his attention to agricultural crime. He issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the theft of crops, specifically singling out simsim, a crucial cash crop for many Agago farmers.
“To those who scheme to steal people’s simsim from their gardens, let me make it abundantly clear: it will not be business as usual,” he stated firmly. Bostify warned that security organs would be vigilant and take decisive action against anyone caught engaging in such illicit activities.
RDC Oweka called upon community leaders, local councils, and residents to cooperate with authorities like LC1, police, among others in reporting both uncontrolled bush fires and instances of crop theft. He underscored the importance of protecting livelihoods and ensuring food security within the district.
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