KYANKWANZI — Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with illegal wetland degradation in Kyankwanzi District, as enforcement agencies intensify efforts to protect fragile ecosystems.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) said the arrest followed a joint operation conducted on March 22, 2026 by the Environmental Protection Force (EPF), Environmental Protection Police Unit (EPPU), and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The operation targeted activities in Kyambizi Village, Kyambizi Parish, Kiryandongo Sub-county, where a developer identified as Mawanda G.W. had allegedly begun draining a wetland without the required approvals.
Illegal drainage works
According to NEMA, the suspect had started creating drainage channels in preparation for establishing a cattle farm.
“The developer commenced wetland drainage activities without seeking approval from NEMA, which is a violation of environmental laws,” the agency said in a statement.
He was arrested and detained at Kyankwanzi Central Police Station, where he recorded a statement.
Legal action underway
Authorities confirmed that the suspect will face legal proceedings and is expected to be served with an Environmental Restoration Order (ERO), requiring him to restore the degraded wetland.
NEMA warned that encroachment on wetlands remains a serious offence under Ugandan law.
“Any person who encroaches on a wetland is liable, upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding 30,000 currency points or imprisonment not exceeding 12 years, or both,” the authority stated.
Ongoing enforcement
The arrest comes amid a broader government crackdown on environmental degradation, particularly in wetlands that play a critical role in water regulation, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
Authorities have urged the public and developers to seek proper approvals before undertaking activities in protected ecosystems, warning that enforcement operations will continue nationwide.
