The Ugandan Ministry of Water and Environment has directed NEMA to intensify wetland restoration in Eastern Uganda. This follows the demolition of illegal structures in wetland areas, with a focus on community accountability and sustainable management of water resources. Local leaders called for environmental conservation efforts to combat pollution and conserve river ecosystems.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment has mandated the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Environment Directorate to escalate efforts for wetland restoration across Eastern Uganda. This directive coincides with the ministry, alongside the police and military, conducting operations in the central region to demolish illegal structures constructed within wetland areas.
During an open day at the ministry’s Eastern Region offices in Mbale City, Assistant Commissioner for Wetlands Management, Lucy Lyango, stressed the significance of rigorous enforcement 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 affirmed. She assured that the regional team is fully equipped with the resources needed to promote environmental sustainability.
Minister of Disaster in the Inzu Ya Masaba Cultural Institution, Vincent Woboya, raised concerns regarding the reckless misuse of water resources in Bugisu. He noted the contamination of essential rivers, stating, “In Bugisu, we have several rivers crucial to our ecological balance, but they are being polluted by local communities.” Furthermore, he highlighted issues such as increased river flooding and water scarcity, attributing the situational degradation to encroachment upon riverbanks and improper cultivation practices.
Woboya lamented the decline in fish populations, stating, “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.” He emphasized the cultural responsibility of the institution to preserve nature for communal benefit.
Reverend Titus Kutosi, representing the Anglican Church of Uganda, shared the church’s initiatives focusing on environmental conservation, such as tree and grass planting on church lands. “We are destroying our future by failing to protect the environment,” he remarked, urging the government to create alternative livelihoods for those reliant on wetlands.
Base Katami, Mbale District Vice Chairperson, applauded governmental efforts in restoring gravity water schemes yet highlighted the urgent need for intervention in Bunambutye Sub-County due to residents consuming discolored water. Similarly, Harriet Kakai, Deputy Mayor, emphasized the importance of community responsibility in protecting water infrastructure, stating, “Why would someone destroy water pipes passing through their garden when the project is meant to benefit the entire community?”
In conclusion, the Ministry of Water and Environment’s directive emphasizes the urgent need for wetland preservation in Eastern Uganda. It highlights the collaboration between governing bodies and community advocates to address environmental degradation and ensure sustainable water resource management. Collaboration, accountability, and community engagement are paramount to restoring and protecting vital ecosystems in the region.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
