The Ugandan Ministry of Water and Environment is initiating a crackdown on wetland encroachers in Eastern Uganda. This involves increased efforts from NEMA and supporting military operations to remove illegal structures. Community leaders are expressing concerns over environmental degradation, pollution, and the loss of water resources, urging action to preserve wetlands for future sustainability.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment has instructed the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Environment Directorate to enhance their restoration efforts for wetlands in Eastern Uganda. This follows current operations supported by the police and army aiming to demolish illegal structures in wetlands across the region.
During an open day in Mbale City, Lucy Lyango, representing the Permanent Secretary, underscored the necessity of stricter enforcement in reclaiming wetlands and riverbanks. She stated that all individuals illegally occupying wetlands would be evicted and held accountable, with support from equipped regional teams to ensure environmental sustainability.
Vincent Woboya, Minister for Disaster in the Inzu Ya Masaba Cultural Institution, raised concerns regarding the severe misuse of water resources in Bugisu. He indicated that local pollution threatens crucial rivers, necessitating heightened awareness about the importance of these water sources amid rising flooding and water scarcity issues in the region.
Woboya lamented the adverse effects of cultivating up to riverbanks, which leads to detrimental sedimentation and water shortages during dry seasons. He noted the alarming decline in fish populations, advocating for a collective effort to restore and preserve these resources for community benefit, emphasizing the institution’s mission to promote ecological conservation.
Reverend Titus Kutosi of Mbale Archdiocese spoke on environmental conservation initiatives undertaken by the Anglican Church, including tree planting across church lands. He highlighted the urgency of protecting the environment to safeguard future generations and called for the government to facilitate alternative livelihoods for communities reliant on wetlands.
Base Katami, Vice Chairperson of Mbale District, applauded government efforts in rehabilitating gravity water schemes but requested urgent intervention in Bunambutye Sub-County, where residents face health hazards from their water supply. Deputy Mayor Harriet Kakai praised the ministry’s initiatives to promote irrigation and enhance sanitation in schools, urging community members to take responsibility in protecting local water resources.
This article outlines the urgent measures being taken by the Ugandan government to combat wetland encroachment in Eastern Uganda. The emphasis lies on stricter enforcement against illegal occupiers and the vital need to raise awareness regarding the conservation of water resources. Local leaders and community members express their concerns and commitment to reclaiming these vital ecosystems to ensure the sustainability of the environment for future generations.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
