Kagadi to crackdown on wetland encroachers and corruption
Approximately 25 acres of the wetland have been depleted, threatening its ecological balance.
Kagadi: The Kagadi district in Western Uganda is taking decisive action to address wetland encroachment and corruption.
The Kagadi District Forest and Environmental Conservation Task Force, in collaboration with the office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), has launched an operation to evict encroachers from the Rwabituju Wetland.
Rwabituju wetland, located near Nyankubebe A and B, Katikara, and Kisaara B villages, has suffered significant degradation due to human activities such as farming (onions, sugarcane, beans, and cabbages).
Approximately 25 acres of the wetland have been depleted, threatening its ecological balance.
The RDC, led by Lillian Ruteraho, aims to apprehend and charge those responsible for encroachment by collaborating with local council chairpersons from neighboring villages.
Benjamin Tumusiime, the Kagadi deputy Resident District Commissioner, emphasizes the need for leaders at all levels to restore depleted wetlands, with a goal of reducing depletion to below 40% in the next 2 to 3 years.
Ruteraho has also addressed corruption within the PDM Sacco (a savings and credit cooperative) in Kasasa, Ruteete Sub County.
Some leaders have started refunding illegally solicited funds to beneficiaries, but others are warned to follow suit or face consequences.
Kagadi youths are cautioned against participating in national protests against corruption, as any involvement may lead to arrest and prosecution.
These measures align with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s directive to restore order and ensure accountability in the district.
Nationwide efforts to combat wetland encroachment are ongoing in Uganda.
The Environment Protection Force (EPF), launched recently, monitors environmental crimes and investigates violations.
The depletion of wetlands has increased, especially after COVID-19-induced lockdowns.
By addressing both wetland degradation and corruption, Kagadi aims to safeguard its natural resources and promote sustainable development.
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