Rukungiri District Launches Restoration of River Ntungwa Wetland to Protect Ecosystems

Summary:

• Rukungiri Deputy RDC Ongom Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe noted that restoring the 450 hectares of wetlands would stabilize the environment.

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RUKUNGIRI: Authorities in Rukungiri District have launched the demarcation and restoration of the River Ntungwa wetland system at Kyabahanga Bridge, located in Bugarama Cell, Bwambara Sub County. This area serves as a crucial link between the Rukungiri and Kanungu districts.

The launch commenced with a press briefing at the office of the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC) and was followed by an official event, where Deputy RDC Ongom Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe led the proceedings by planting a demarcation pillar to mark the restoration on Thursday.

Chris Kagayano, the LC3 chairperson for Bwambara Sub County, praised the district authorities for their initiative. He emphasized the importance of protecting rivers and wetlands, noting that flooding from the river has posed a threat to local residents. Kagayano expressed optimism that this restoration effort will help control water overflow and prevent future flooding.

Caroline Ainembabazi, the focal person for the “Building Resilient Communities, Ecosystems, and Associated Departments” project, addressed the press earlier in the day. She explained that the project aims to restore 450 hectares of wetlands and 400 hectares of degraded catchment areas within Rukungiri District. Ainembabazi warned that Uganda faces significant climate challenges due to wetland encroachment and stressed that restoring these ecosystems is crucial. The project is set to continue until November 30, 2024.

CUE IN CAROLINE……ON RESTORATION…ENG//

Rukungiri District LC5 Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama urged the public to avoid planting crops like bananas, beans, coffee, and matoke on hillsides. Instead, he encouraged responsible use of wetlands, such as for grazing livestock. Kyomukama clarified that the government does not intend to displace people but rather to promote sustainable wetland use.

CUE IN KYOMUKAMA……..ON RESTORATION…RR//

Deputy RDC Ongom Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe also noted that restoring the 450 hectares of wetlands would stabilize the environment. He mentioned that the government plans to support those vacating wetlands by offering alternative income opportunities, such as goat farming, beekeeping, and allowing residents to use the restored wetlands for sustainable activities like tree planting and fish farming.

CUE IN ONGOM……..ON RESTORATION…RR//

The event was attended by local residents, government officials, the Chief Administrative Officer of Rukungiri District, and representatives from the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA).