Fort Portal Wetlands Under Siege: 100 Encroachers Defy Government Conservation Efforts

Environmental activists attribute the environmental degradation to increased corruption among government officials

By Kugonza Sylvia (Jubilee Radio)

Despite the Ugandan government’s efforts to restore wetlands, the situation in Fort Portal tells a different story, with at least 100 individuals having been identified as encroachers on the wetlands.

According to senior environmental officer Gladys Natugonza Mirembe in an interview with Jubilee Radio, these encroachers have been registered, and most have received warning letters to vacate the area.

Natugonza, who refuted claims that the environmental office has issued permits for activities within the wetlands, stated that those found encroaching will be evicted at any time.

She highlighted that these individuals have damaged the wetlands by constructing structures, dumping soil, and planting trees. Natugonza also emphasized that, according to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), all wetlands in Uganda are protected, countering public claims that some are not, which has led to encroachment. She warned that anyone found occupying wetlands will be removed.

Environmental activist Joel Mwesige attributed the environmental degradation to increased corruption among government officials.

Earlier last week, drama unfolded  in Fort Portal City when Patrick Muganzi, the former security minister of King Oyo, managed to evade arrest by environmental police. He was apprehended at his residence on allegations of damaging the Futi Butangwa wetland in Butebe ward, North division of Fort Portal City.

Gladys Natugonza Mirembe, a senior environment officer, stated that Muganzi had received warnings from the NEMA office to cease his activities, which included constructing structures and digging trenches in the wetland but despite these warnings, he continued these unauthorized activities unabated