Ugandan President calls for harmonised wetland utilisation

21 November 2025, 11:16

By Ali lukomo

Speaking to the media after his campaign tour in Kamuli and Luuka, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni held a press conference at his state lodge in Busoga, where he offered notable advice to the people of Busoga on climate and environmental issues, which are increasingly affecting the community.

The President said that although people rely heavily on rice cultivation in wetlands and swamps, there is a need for discussions to change mindsets and use these areas more profitably. He added that wetlands are currently underutilised, being mainly used for rice, yet they can support other profitable activities that do not destroy the wetlands, such as fish farming. He also suggested using wetlands to support irrigation on upland areas, where other crops, including rice, could be grown.

President Museveni emphasised that any measures to regulate wetland use will be implemented peacefully and respectfully, without resorting to violence against the community.

On environmental matters, the President said the community should embrace irrigation and protect the environment by mulching with papyrus grasses harvested from the wetlands.

Responding to questions from those being displaced from forest areas by the National Forest Authority, the President said the issues would be properly organised and resolved.

The NRM flag bearer for Buyende district and eying for Buyende district seat Mr sharif managariene asked the community to embrace trees planting and adopt the fish farming so that they can leave the wetlands Free and be utilized for other activities. Just like Mayuge district Buyende is one of the districts which is surrounded by water body and wetlands.