Summary:
President Museveni highlighted the critical role wetlands play as reservoirs of water, essential for generating hydropower electricity.
RUBANDA: President Yoweri Museveni has directed farmers in the Kigezi sub-region to cease cultivating and fishing in wetlands, emphasizing the need to preserve these vital ecosystems and their surrounding environments.
Speaking at the official commissioning of the Mirama-Kabale high voltage power line and its substation in Hamuko Village, Rubanda District on Wednesday, President Museveni highlighted the critical role wetlands play as reservoirs of water, essential for generating hydropower electricity. He advised that while farmers living near wetlands may fish along the banks of swamps, the core wetland areas must remain untouched to ensure the free flow of water.
“Wetlands are crucial for our water systems, and by protecting them, we ensure a continuous supply of water for hydropower generation,” Museveni stated.
He reminded residents that the water used to generate electricity at Jinja originates from wetlands, where small rivers feed into the Nile through tributaries like the Kagyera River.
The President further encouraged Kigezi residents to maintain smooth water flow in wetland catchment areas to support irrigation, ultimately benefiting agricultural productivity.
“These wetlands can be utilized more effectively. Fish farming, for instance, can generate more income while still preserving the wetlands. Tomorrow, I will ask leaders during an engagement in Rukungiri District to present calculations on the benefits and drawbacks of cultivating in wetlands,” he added.
President Museveni urged residents to use wetland water for irrigating crops on hilly terrains. He criticized the regional leadership for failing to educate residents on modern irrigation techniques, highlighting a gap in agricultural knowledge and resource management.
CUE IN PRESIDENT MUSEVENI…….ON FARMERS……..RR/ENG//
According to the Presidential PDM Tour Program, President Museveni will visit a farmer in Nyamirama Sub-county on Thursday, launch the NRM Volunteers Nyekundire Group in Kanungu District, and meet over 900 selected leaders from the six districts of the Kigezi Sub-region.
On Friday, he is scheduled to commission the Kigezi Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Kamuganguzi, a State House skilling facility, followed by the commissioning of three roads in Kabale District. The President will conclude his tour with a public rally at Rushebeya Playground in Rwamucuucu Sub-county, Rukiga District.
