The Rukungiri district authorities have launched a drive to embark on river Ntungwa wetland restoration and demarcation in Bwambara Sub County to combat the adverse effects of climate change and safeguard the environment.
The launching exercise was officiated by the deputy RDC Rukungiri district Ahimbisibwe Wilberforce Ongom yesterday Thursday at Kyabahanga Bridge which borders Rukungiri and Kanungu districts and was attended by Rukungiri district CAO Hajji Masokoyi Wasswa, LC5 Chairperson, Productions, environment, water and natural resource officers, district secretary for production Byarugaba Micheal, Lc3 chairperson Bwambara Sub County among others.
The residents from villages of Bugarama, Kyehunde, Kanyabisambwe, Kagorogoro, Nyabugando, Nyamihuku, Omukikomo, Kinyamatojo and Rushaya B, all from affected areas also graced the function.
Speaking to residents during the launch, Rukungiri district deputy Resident District Commissioner Ahimbisibwe Wilberforce Ongom highlighted the project’s significance in mitigating the escalating impacts of climate change, which have led to the loss of agricultural land, infrastructure, and even human lives.
Ongom emphasized the need for collective responsibility in environmental protection, calling on all residents to play a role in preserving River Ntungwa wetland.
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Agaba Martin, the Rukungiri District Natural Resources Officer, underscored the universal responsibility of environmental protection.
Agaba said the restoration of wetlands is not being done in Rukungiri only but even in other districts calling upon residents of Bwambara to unite in addressing the environmental challenges at hand and restore river Ntungwa.
He further disclosed that they are intending to restore 400 hectares of degraded catchment areas adjacent to the restored wetlands.
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The Rukungiri district chairperson LC5, Kyomukama Geoffrey, stated that people who have been told to leave the demarcated area can use it for beekeeping and animal rearing instead of crop growing, which is harmful to the river.
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There has been a significant change at River Ntungwa wetland since residents were made aware of the need to leave wetlands, according to Chris Kagayano, chairperson LC3 Bwambara Sub County, who also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Natural Resource Department in restoring wetlands.
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Local residents who willingly vacated the area will be provided with alternative livelihood support, including beehives for apiculture, goats, and assistance to engage in fish farming.
As Rukungiri District takes strides in wetland restoration, the collaboration between local communities and government authorities showcases a promising model for proactive environmental conservation efforts.
