Kampala, Uganda – The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has intensified its efforts to restore the Lubigi Wetland System, with a stern warning to encroachers.
In a meeting with local leaders from Kampala City and Wakiso District on September 20, NEMA’s Executive Director, Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, reiterated the authority’s commitment to protecting the environment.
The meeting, requested by Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, aimed to address concerns surrounding the restoration project. Leaders expressed frustration over the lack of feedback on appeals submitted by individuals affected by the Lubigi Restoration exercise phase one.
To address this, NEMA resolved to:
1. Give appellants one week (starting September 23) to submit supporting evidence.
2. Expedite the appeals hearing process within two weeks (starting September 23).
NEMA’s restoration efforts focus on Lubigi, Kaliddubi, and Nambigirwa wetlands. The authority warns that wetland degradation is a crime under Section 55 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, punishable by fines up to UGX 600 million or imprisonment up to 12 years, or both.
The meeting was attended by Members of Parliament Hon. Ronald Balimwezo, Hon. Abubaker Kawalya, and Hon. Derrick Nyeko, as well as Assistant Resident City Commissioner Geoffrey Sserwadda.
With the deadline looming, encroachers are advised to comply with NEMA’s restoration orders or face consequences.
