Summary:
- The beneficiaries received 53 cows, 52 goats, and 67 sheep as part of a livelihoods program aimed at supporting those who vacated wetlands to enable restoration efforts.
KISORO: The government of Uganda, in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund and UNDP, on Friday distributed livestock worth UGX 193,950,000 Million to residents of Kirundo, Nyundo, and Rubuguri sub-counties in Kisoro District as part of efforts to compensate those displaced during the wetlands restoration project that began in 2017.
The beneficiaries received 53 cows, 52 goats, and 67 sheep as part of a livelihoods program aimed at supporting those who vacated wetlands to enable restoration efforts. The wetlands rehabilitated under this program include Mishishi and Gichuba in Kirundo Sub-county, Nyarutovu in Nyundo Sub-county, as well as Mukahimbi and Kashasha in Rubuguri Town Council.
Judith Muja, the Kisoro District Senior Environment Officer, revealed that 700 wetland users were initially documented, and 296 were ultimately vetted as eligible for compensation. According to Muja, the livestock provided was selected based on the preferences and capabilities of the beneficiaries to ensure sustainable use.
“This first delivery is targeted at people who vacated the Mishishi wetland, specifically in Rubuguri and Kirundo sub-counties,” Muja explained.
Cue in Judith…..on Wetlands…..ENG//
Dr. Masembe Kamarachi, a key stakeholder in the project, emphasized that the provided livestock should not be seen as equivalent to what beneficiaries earned from the wetlands but as an alternative source of livelihood.
“We encourage beneficiaries to care for these animals, whether for dowry, market value, or other uses, to yield sustainable benefits for their families,” Dr. Masembe advised.
Cue in Dr. Masembe….on Beneficiaries…ENG//
Kisoro District LCV Chairperson Abel Bizimana commended the funding partners for honoring their pledge to compensate displaced residents. He urged those still occupying wetlands to adhere to government directives, noting that compliance would help the district secure more development projects.
Cue in Bizimana….on Government….RR//
Meanwhile, Rukundo Manasi, Kisoro District Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, praised the restoration project for its community sensitization efforts. He called for continued engagement with communities to foster environmental conservation without resorting to forceful evictions.
“Sensitization is key to ensuring community cooperation in conserving the environment. Stakeholders must work closely with residents to achieve sustainable results,” Manasi remarked.
Cue in Manasi….on Sensitization…..RR//
