Challenges of implementing commercial forestry policy in africa: evidence from northern uganda

Although Commercial Forestry Policy and supportive laws exist for the development of commercial forestry, which together with other socio-economic activities like agriculture contribute to the quality of socio-economic welfare, the population in Northern Uganda has remained largely poor. This study aimed at examining the factors that affect implementation of the current Commercial Forestry Policy in Northern Uganda. A Cross-sectional survey design, with a target population of 127 participants was used in this study. Data were analyzed by measuring the frequencies of occurrence of sets of response. The findings revealed that, inadequate public awareness creation, lack of seeds/planting stocks and funds, were among the major challenges affecting implementation of the current Commercial Forestry Policy in Northern Uganda. The study recommended that continuous awareness creation be conducted, financial and physical incentives be provided to the public and researchers should explore further into other strategies for effective implementation of Forestry Policy, among others.