By Kampala, Uganda – President Museveni has endorsed the National Environment Management Authority’s (NEMA) ongoing efforts to evict encroachers from wetlands across the country. In a national address on Saturday, the president emphasized that encroaching on wetlands is foolhardy and destructive.
“Those claiming they were born in the encroached wetland areas should be aware that we have records tracing the history of forests and wetlands. We know what exactly happened and when,” Museveni said.
The president responded to criticisms against NEMA, stating, “Blaming NEMA on why it allowed people to settle in the wetlands is fine but doesn’t exonerate the encroachers. Are you a Ugandan or from Europe? It is the duty of everyone to protect the environment.”
For the past month, NEMA has intensified its operations against encroachers in wetlands. These actions started in Lubigi, where several properties, including houses, were razed. NEMA’s operations have since expanded to other parts of the country.
Despite some public backlash, President Museveni firmly supported NEMA’s actions during his Saturday address. He noted that those seeking compensation should not waste time, as no one will be compensated for encroaching on wetlands. “All the people in the wetlands, please leave peacefully. We cannot compensate you for breaking the law and not using common sense.”
The president highlighted the vital role of wetlands in Uganda, warning that destroying them could turn the country into a dry land. “Wetlands generate 40% of our rain, and if you remove them, the whole of Uganda will be like Karamoja or worse. Where will the water come from if you destroy the wetlands? Wetlands are not mere wastelands. Swamps are areas of great value,” Museveni stressed.
nilepost.co.ug
