news 3 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kibaale District Cracks Down on Wetland Encroachment with Arrests Imminent
Kibaale District authorities are shifting from awareness campaigns to strict enforcement, warning that encroachers on wetlands and forest reserves will face arrest. This move aims to protect vital ecosystems and prevent further environmental degradation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/wetland-encroachers-face-arrest-as-kibaale-moves-to-protect-ecosystems-5484206
Kibaale District is taking a firm stance against environmental degradation, signaling an end to public sensitisation efforts regarding wetland and forest reserve protection. Assistant Resident District Commissioner Godfrey Asiimwe announced that the district will now transition to enforcement measures, with arrests pending for individuals found encroaching on protected ecosystems.
During a stakeholders’ meeting, Asiimwe emphasized that repeated warnings have not curbed the destruction of natural resources. “The time for gentle reminders is over. People have continued to destroy wetlands and forests despite repeated warnings. We are now moving to enforce the law,” he stated. This enforcement aligns with national environmental policies and a recent presidential directive on wetland conservation.
The crackdown will target all offenders, including local leaders who have allegedly failed to address environmental violations within their jurisdictions. “Whether you are a farmer cultivating in a wetland or a leader who chooses to look the other way, the law will catch up with you,” Asiimwe warned.
Despite years of awareness initiatives, activities like wetland drainage, illegal cultivation, and tree cutting remain prevalent. District officials and environmental activists highlight the critical role these ecosystems play in climate regulation, water source protection, and supporting agriculture. Environmental degradation also exacerbates human-wildlife conflict by reducing animal habitats.
Concerns have been raised about the long-term consequences of this destruction, including biodiversity loss, reduced agricultural productivity, and more erratic weather patterns. Former Minister for Bunyoro Affairs, Janipher Namuyangu, urged residents to conserve the environment, warning of dire climate change impacts if current trends continue. Some residents, facing land shortages, have acknowledged their role in encroachment but are now agreeing to vacate wetlands as directed by the government.
The district leadership plans to collaborate with environmental officers, security agencies, and local communities to ensure compliance and restore damaged ecosystems.