Residents of Nyundo Sub- County in Kisoro District have expressed mixed reactions following the government’s distribution of heifers and goats as compensation for wetlands that were taken over for conservation purposes. The exercise, conducted at Mucha in Musezero Village, has raised concerns about the adequacy, fairness, and transparency of the compensation process.
Speaking to our reporter on Monday, several affected residents said the compensation does not match the value of what they lost, explaining that the wetlands were their primary source of food and income, including school fees for their children. Others complained that some beneficiaries were not genuine wetland users, alleging that wealthier individuals who did not depend on the wetlands received animals ahead of poorer households.
CUE IN RESIDENTS……ON THE COMPENSATION…. RR//
Nyundo Sub- County LC3 Chairperson, Mutambuzi Fred Kanyaruju, expressed dissatisfaction with the nature of the compensation, arguing that it does not adequately reflect the livelihoods residents lost. He appealed to authorities to reconsider and improve the compensation package as the program continues, while urging residents to remain calm.
However, Kisoro District Environment Officer, Muja Judith, said the relocation of residents from wetlands is part of a broader government policy aimed at environmental protection and restoration. She noted that the exercise was conducted in line with conservation guidelines and confirmed that 17 goats were distributed to some affected residents in the area.
CUE IN MUJA……ON RELOCATION……RR//
The Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Nizeyimana John, called for calm, harmony, and patience among residents. He urged affected communities to accept the initial support provided as government works toward addressing outstanding gaps in the compensation process.
CUE IN NIZEYIMANA……ON RESIDENTS……RR//
