KAMPALA – The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a statement reassuring the public that no restored area of Lubigi wetland has been or will be allocated to any investor. This clarification comes after recent media reports suggested that a site in Bulenga was being restored and given to an investor.
“NEMA investigated the matter and found that the site in question is largely on dry land, with only 16% falling within the historical boundaries of the wetland. The activity on the site, soil stockpiling, has been stopped, and the landowner has been directed to restore the affected area.”
Uganda’s wetlands face severe threats, with over 30% destroyed in the last two decades due to human activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development. The Uganda Wildlife Authority reports that 50% of Uganda’s wetlands have been converted into agricultural land, 20% degraded due to pollution and sedimentation, and 10% destroyed by infrastructure development.
Lubigi wetland, spanning 1,721 hectares, serves as a critical water catchment area for Kampala City and surrounding districts. It supports flood control, water filtration, and pollution control, and is home to unique wildlife, including over 200 bird species. The wetland’s importance extends to education and research, tourism and recreation, and biodiversity conservation.
NEMA’s restoration efforts aim to preserve Lubigi wetland’s ecological and social functions. The authority remains committed to protecting Uganda’s natural resources and ensuring sustainable development.
The destruction of Uganda’s wetlands has severe consequences, including increased flooding, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. It is essential to protect these ecosystems for future generations.
NEMA’s dedication to preserving Lubigi wetland and other natural resources demonstrates the authority’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The Lubigi wetland restoration project is a collaborative effort between NEMA, the Ministry of Water and Environment, Uganda Police Force, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Wakiso District Local Government, and other stakeholders.
