The Ugandan government is intensifying efforts to restore wetlands in Eastern Uganda, directing NEMA and the Environment Directorate to combat illegal encroachments. Stakeholders have expressed concerns over water resource misuse and environmental degradation, urging public awareness and community engagement. The initiative seeks to promote sustainable practices and involves various local leaders advocating for ecological conservation.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment has mandated increased efforts to restore wetlands in Eastern Uganda, directing the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Environment Directorate to take action. This initiative coincides with ongoing operations in the central region aimed at demolishing unauthorized structures in wetlands, supported by police and military forces.
During an open day event, Lucy Lyango, Assistant Commissioner for the Wetlands Management Department, articulated the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to reclaim wetlands and riverbanks. We want to see the Directorate of Environment and NEMA more visible and proactive on the ground. All those illegally occupying wetlands will be evicted and held accountable under the law, she stated, highlighting that the regional team is equipped with the necessary resources for sustainable environmental practices.
Vincent Woboya, Minister for Disaster in the Inzu Ya Masaba Cultural Institution, raised alarm over the misuse of water resources in the region. He cited the pollution of rivers in the Bugisu area as detrimental to the ecological balance. Woboya emphasized the dire need for public awareness regarding the significance of these water sources and noted the adverse effects of flooding and water scarcity, exacerbated by agricultural encroachment.
Additionally, he lamented the decline of fish populations in local rivers, saying, We used to catch plenty of catfish and mudfish, but now the only thing you find is frogs. Our people have destroyed these water resources through pollution. Woboya remarked that the community advocates for the conservation of nature as a path to prosperity.
Reverend Titus Kutosi from the Anglican Church of Uganda announced an environmental conservation initiative aimed at tree planting and grass cultivation on church lands. He noted, We are destroying our future by failing to protect the environment, and urged the government to provide alternative livelihoods for communities reliant on wetlands. He expressed skepticism about the effective implementation of policies despite Uganda’s strong policy framework.
Base Katami, Mbale District Vice Chairperson, recognized the government’s efforts in restoring gravity water schemes in remote areas but highlighted the urgent need for interventions in Bunambutye Sub-County where residents consume discolored water. Harriet Kakai, Deputy Mayor, praised initiatives enhancing irrigation farming and cleanliness in schools, emphasizing communal responsibility to protect public projects.
In summary, the government of Uganda is taking decisive action to combat illegal encroachments on wetlands in Eastern Uganda, emphasizing the necessity of public awareness and community involvement in environmental conservation. Various stakeholders have expressed concerns regarding resource misuse and the subsequent ecological impacts. Moreover, there is a clear call for proactive government measures and community education to protect vital water sources for future generations.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
