Kabale Hopeful MP Urges Farmers to Protect Land Amidst Heavy Rains

KABALE – In a heartfelt plea, Ms. Grace Ankunda Bekunda Bwesigye, the Kabale District Hopeful Woman Member of Parliament, has urged the farmers of Kigezi Sub-region to adopt simple yet effective measures to protect their lands from the relentless heavy rains this season.

Ms. Ankunda’s call comes as the region has already started experiencing destructive rains, which have resulted in the devastation of homes and crops.

A recent incident occurred in Nshanjare Town Council in Rubanda District, leaving many people homeless.

In an interview with this Reporter, Ms. Ankunda expressed deep concern about the state of the environment and the potential damage heavy rains could cause to homes, farms, and domestic animals.

Ms. Ankunda encouraged the people of Kigezi to take responsibility for their environment by planting trees to combat the rapid water runoff from the mountains.

She also urged them to refrain from polluting with plastics, which are causing harm to the environment.

Emphasizing the natural beauty of Kigezi, Ms. Ankunda highlighted the importance of implementing practices such as bench terraces, grass bands, gabions, check dams, and agro-forestry tree lines to prevent soil erosion and landslides.

Kigezi Sub-region has repeatedly faced challenges posed by floods, storms, and landslides, significantly impacting local agriculture.

Ms. Ankunda speculated that climate fluctuations, including heavy rains and prolonged droughts, may have negatively affected soil nutrient levels, underscoring the need for responsible land management to maintain and enhance crop yields.

Ms. Ankunda also called upon the Ministry of Water and Environment to actively engage in educating the public on proper waste management to promote a healthier environment.

Cue in Grace Ankunda……on Environment……ENG/RR//

This initiative follows tragic events earlier this year when mudslides claimed the lives of over 16 people and caused extensive destruction in the districts of Rubanda, Kisoro, and Rukiga in the Kigezi region.