Rukungiri District Launches Restoration of River Ntungwa Wetland to Protect Ecosystems.

Rukungiri: Authorities in Rukungiri District have launched the demarcation and restoration of the River Ntungwa wetland system at Kyabahanga Bridge, located in Bugarama Cell, Bwambara Sub County.

This area serves as a crucial link between the Rukungiri and Kanungu districts.

The launch began on October 17, 2024 with a press briefing in the office of the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC), followed by the official event where the Deputy RDC, Ongom Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe, officiated by planting a demarcation pillar to mark the restoration.

Chris Kagayano, the LC3 chairperson for Bwambara Subcounty, praised the district authorities for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of protecting rivers and wetlands. He highlighted how flooding from the river has been a threat to residents, and this restoration will help mitigate the overflow of water.

Caroline Ainembabazi, the focal person for the project Building Resilient Communities, Ecosystems, and Associated Departments in Uganda, addressed the press earlier in the day. She explained that the project aims to restore 450 hectares of wetlands and 400 hectares of degraded catchment areas in Rukungiri District. Ainembabazi warned that Uganda is facing climate challenges due to wetland encroachment, and the only solution is to restore these ecosystems. The project will continue until November 30, 2024.

Rukungiri District LC5 Chairperson, Geoffrey Kyomukama, urged the public to plant crops like bananas, beans, coffee, and matoke on hillsides and instead use wetlands responsibly, such as for animal grazing. He clarified that the government is not displacing people but showing them proper ways to utilize wetlands for sustainable use.

The Deputy RDC, Ongom Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe, added that the restoration of the 450 hectares will help stabilize the environment. He also mentioned that the government plans to support those vacating the wetlands by providing alternative income sources, including goats, beehives, and allowing them to use restored wetlands for sustainable activities like beekeeping, animal grazing, tree planting, and fish farming.

The event was witnessed by residents, local government officials, the Chief Administrative Officer for Rukungiri District, and representatives from the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA).