Kibaale communities warned against bush and wetland burning

29 January 2026, 8:43 pm

By Kato Joseph

Kibaale

Environmental authorities in Kibaale District have issued a stern warning to communities against the practice of burning swamps and wetlands for cultivation.

Wilson Kyamuhondeire, the Kibaale District Forest Ranger, says the illegal burning is mainly carried out during the dry season to clear land for crops such as rice and sugarcane, adding that the practice has led to severe and long-term environmental degradation.

Kyamuhondeire further reveals that the Natural Resources Department has recently identified several wetlands that have been set on fire, particularly in Mugarama, Kyebando and Nyamarunda sub-counties, among other areas.

He adds that wetland degradation has reached up to 70 per cent, warning all individuals cultivating in wetlands to vacate immediately. He also cautioned residents against bush burning, noting that it poses serious risks to crops, pasture and the wider environment.