Synopsis
As World Wetlands Day approaches, Uganda highlights its ongoing efforts and commitment to wetland conservation. The country has made significant strides in restoring its wetlands, emphasizing the importance of these ecosystems for sustainable development and the need for collective action.Key Takeaways
- Uganda celebrates World Wetlands Day.
- Wetland coverage has improved to 9.3%.
- Over 55,149 hectares of wetlands have been restored.
- Public awareness and action are crucial for conservation.
- Stricter measures are in place to protect wetlands.
Kampala, Feb 1 (NationPress) As the world gets ready to celebrate World Wetlands Day this Sunday, Uganda is restating its dedication to wetland conservation by highlighting advancements in its restoration initiatives.
In a statement released ahead of the event, the Ugandan Ministry of Water and Environment revealed that the country will observe the day under the theme, "Conserving Wetlands Today for a Secure Tomorrow."
Beatrice Anywar, the Minister of State for Environment, underscored the significance of wetlands in promoting sustainable development.
"By taking action now, we can ensure that these essential ecosystems continue to flourish and enhance biodiversity, purify water, serve as a buffer against severe weather events like floods and storms, and provide water for both domestic and agricultural use," she stated. "Thus, investing in wetlands today means investing in a more resilient and sustainable future."
Despite their critical role, wetlands are increasingly threatened by unsustainable urban growth, agricultural expansion, and pollution. The National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda's state environmental agency, reports that the wetland area has shrunk from 13 percent to approximately 8 percent of the nation's total land mass. Experts warn that this trend is likely to continue without decisive action.
Conservationists attribute wetland loss to prolonged droughts, erratic weather patterns, and the resulting impacts on crops, livelihoods, and property.
Anywar noted that stringent conservation strategies have reversed some of the losses, increasing wetland coverage to 9.3 percent. The government is strengthening these initiatives to promote further recovery.
In 2023, NEMA designated 8,613 wetland areas under the National Environment (Declaration of Wetlands) notice, mandating occupants to vacate. An Environment Protection Force has been established to enforce the evictions.
Last year, NEMA intensified efforts in the Lubigi wetland, a vital ecosystem supporting Lake Victoria, Africa's largest freshwater body. Thousands of encroachers were evicted, and authorities plan to rehabilitate the area after demolishing illegal structures.
Government statistics indicate that more than 55,149 hectares of degraded wetlands have been restored, and over 3,000 km of wetland boundaries have been marked with concrete pillars, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Anywar emphasized the collective obligation in wetland conservation.
"Every small action matters, whether it's reporting wetland degradation, raising awareness, generating scientific insights, participating in enforcement, restoration, and conservation, or financially supporting wetland initiatives," she stated.
