Staff Reporter
The River Rwizi catchment, originating from Buhweju in southwestern Uganda, is a crucial source of wealth and health for an estimated population of over three million people. However, it faces unprecedented challenges from human activities and climate change, necessitating urgent attention.
In response to these challenges, the Rwizi Catchment Management Committee, in collaboration with stakeholders including the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), has developed a strategic plan to promote sustainable practices and restoration efforts along the catchment. These include soil and water conservation, wetland restoration, and other environmentally sound practices.
These remarks were made by Ms. Caroline Mwebaze, Deputy Team Leader of the Victoria Water Management Zone, during a press conference held at the Mbarara Regional Water and Environment Offices in Booma, Mbarara city. The conference aimed to mobilize support and raise awareness for the “Save River Rwizi Marathon 2024.”
Ms. Mwebaze emphasized that to safeguard the River Rwizi from degradation, the Ministry of Water and Environment, in partnership with the Abahumuza Development Group, has organized the Save River Rwizi Marathon 2024, scheduled for Sunday, July 28, 2024. This annual event aims to highlight the importance of preserving the River Rwizi and encourage community involvement in environmental conservation.
The theme for this year’s event is “Women as Stewards in Sustainable Utilization of Water and Environmental Resources, Empowering the Girl Child in Conservation.”
Ms. Immaculate Kobugabe, representing the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), highlighted the vast extent of the River Rwizi Catchment area, spanning from Buhweju district to Kyotera, benefiting numerous communities. She emphasized that the well-being of these communities improves significantly when the River Rwizi is sustainably managed, calling for collective efforts to protect and enhance its health.
Joseph Asasira, the environmental officer in charge of Mbarara City North, noted that as Mbarara City expands, there is a misconception that wetlands are incompatible with urban growth.
