KAGADI — The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has identified seven individuals suspected of degrading wetlands in Kagadi District and will require them to restore the damaged areas.
The Environmental Protection Force (EPF) from NEMA’s Hoima Albertine offices responded on March 23, 2026, to reports of wetland destruction in Kyanyarare and Kyabagogo villages, Nyamucuma Parish, Muhoro Subcounty.
Extent of degradation
NEMA’s preliminary findings revealed: approximately 10 acres of wetland had been degraded, drainage channels were dug to facilitate farming, wetland vegetation was burned to ease cultivation and the area, a habitat for crested cranes, showed visible disturbance.
Authorities noted that wetlands across Kagadi continue to face encroachment, particularly for maize and sugarcane plantations.
Suspected degraders
With support from local leaders, the following individuals were profiled as suspected wetland degraders: T. Rugasira, E. Nasasira, C. Natukunda, Y. Kapate, M. Gamukama, E. Kamugisa and S. Potino.
A case file has been opened against them, and they are set to receive Environmental Restoration Orders (EROs) requiring them to rehabilitate the damaged ecosystems.
Stakeholder resolutions
A stakeholders’ meeting, including the Subcounty Chief, LC III Chairperson, and GISO resolved to conduct a detailed wetland assessment, continue profiling individuals responsible for degradation, issue Environmental Restoration Orders, implement restoration activities in coordination with the District Local Government and roll out public sensitisation campaigns on wetland protection and sustainable use.
NEMA emphasised the importance of protecting wetlands, which serve critical ecological functions and provide habitats for endangered species, warning that encroachment will not be tolerated.
