According to reports, the geographical area affected so far covers close to 75 acres of land with homesteads and farmlands (downhill) in Bulambuli to Sironko districts.
The tree's historical importance is underscored by its age, estimated to be over 400 years old, and its role as a spiritual home for many who seek blessings or guidance.
Besigye and the co-accused Kamulegeya are not the first civilians to appear before the military court; many have been charged, and in the case of Micheal Kabaziguruka, the former MP for Nakawa division, the Constitutional Court held a decision that the General Court Martial has no power to try civilians, though this still continues to happen.
Communities face several challenges in managing land effectively, like fragmentation, lack of cohesion, resource constraints, regulatory barriers, and inequality in access.
The situation remains critical as health authorities work to address both immediate concerns and long-term strategies for managing mpox outbreaks in Uganda and across Africa.