MUGABE R
The Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Water and Environment, Engineer Orijabo Albert, has called on the public to strictly observe environmental Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to safeguard natural resources.
He made the appeal on March 10, 2026, while addressing a delegation from the Ministry of Water and Environment together with local leaders from Rukungiri and Kanungu districts during the launch of Water Week at Birara Resort Gardens in Nyakinengo Parish, Nyakagyeme Sub-county, Rukungiri District.
During the event, the team carried out a number of ceremonial activities including the planting of bamboo trees as part of efforts to promote environmental conservation. The delegation later visited several project sites including Kanyamisinga and Rushuro in Katete Sub-county, Kanungu District, as well as Mitaano, Katungu and Ntungwa in Rukungiri District to monitor ongoing environmental restoration initiatives.
The government has initiated a range of activities aimed at restoring the Matanda–Enengo wetland catchment area. These initiatives also promote alternative livelihood opportunities for communities living near the wetland. Among the supported activities are apiary (bee keeping), aquaculture (fish farming), fruit growing and energy-saving stove making, which are intended to reduce pressure on the wetland ecosystem while improving household incomes.
Engineer Orijabo emphasized the need for community preparedness and active participation to ensure the success of the project. He encouraged residents to support Water Week activities, raise awareness on environmental protection, and adopt responsible practices such as proper waste management, afforestation and soil erosion control at household level.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson LC5 for Kanungu District, Arinaitwe Sam Kajojo, who also serves as the Project Oversight Chairperson, commended the government for committing 200 billion shillings towards the restoration and sustainable management of the wetland. The project covers about 12,000 acres and is expected to enhance food production and household incomes, thereby promoting financial inclusion in the area. He urged the public to actively participate in protecting the project and to support government initiatives aimed at wealth creation.
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Kanungu, Ahimbisibwe Gard Rugaju, cautioned farmers against destroying the planted vegetation, especially bamboo trees and boundary markers, which are meant to support environmental restoration efforts.
An officer from the Ministry of Water and Environment, Gerald Babi Kizito, also encouraged project beneficiaries to properly manage and maintain the initiatives introduced to them so that communities can fully realize the intended benefits.
