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Mbale, Uganda — October 12, 2025
Dozens of young children in Wanale Sub-county, Mbale District, have turned to firewood selling as an alternative means of survival following a prolonged teachers’ strike that has paralyzed learning in the area.
The children, aged between four and twelve years, are trekking up to 10 kilometers every morning to collect and deliver firewood to Mbale City through a makeshift market at Kika B.S., Mooni, on the outskirts of the city.
Local residents say the situation has triggered massive deforestation around Mt. Elgon National Park, with the once-green hills now facing increasing pressure from human activity.
“It’s heartbreaking to see such young children carrying heavy bundles of firewood instead of school bags,” said one concerned resident. “Parents, teachers, and local leaders seem unconcerned, and yet the future of these children is at stake.”
Observers warn that the growing trend of child labor in the region could have long-term effects on both education and environmental conservation, as the children remain out of school and forest cover continues to decline.
Community members are now calling on the Government of Uganda and the Ministry of Education and Sports to quickly resolve the teachers’ strike and take immediate action to safeguard the welfare of the affected children.
The appeal also extends to environmental agencies to step in and prevent further destruction of forest resources around Mt. Elgon, which plays a vital role in regulating the region’s climate and water systems.
By REAGAN NABUTELE
