Okuti is one of the six border markets identified by the government in 2011 to be upgraded into international border markets under the Common Market for East and Southern African (COMESA) policy to promote regional trade. The others markets are Katuna in Kabale, Elegu in Amuru, Mutukula in Rakai, Malaba in Busia and Bwera in Kasese district.
The Prime Minister of the Payira Cultural Institution George Ochol-Onono says they are concerned about the influx of illegal loggers and commercial charcoal producers who have cleared close to six square miles of natural tree cover in the parishes of Burlobo and Pungole.
