Activists urge government to enforce environmental protection laws

6 March 2026, 12:58 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Environmental activists have called on the Ugandan government to strengthen the enforcement of laws aimed at protecting forests, wetlands and other natural resources that are increasingly under threat.

Speaking to journalists today in Kampala, the activists said the government has the mandate to safeguard the environment but has often taken the issue lightly, allowing many people to encroach on protected areas such as forests and swamps.

They noted that for years, authorities have been urged to take decisive action against individuals who construct buildings in wetlands and block drainage channels. However, according to the activists, the government’s response has remained inadequate.

Lubega Hamidu, an environmental activist, said they gathered to urge the government to address the actions of leaders and individuals who disregard environmental protection.

“When you go to Lwera in Masaka, the swamp has been encroached upon by a prominent person in this country, yet the government has remained silent while the wetland is being taken away,” Lubega said.

He added that environmental destruction has made it increasingly difficult to predict weather patterns in the country, as many natural ecosystems that regulate climate are being destroyed.

Lubega also cited the case of Lubigi Wetland in Kampala, where residents were evicted but some developments, such as a petrol station, remain in place.

“What does that mean? It shows that while some people, especially the poor, can easily be evicted, those with influence often remain untouched,” he said.

The activists further argued that selective enforcement of environmental laws undermines conservation efforts.

“On behalf of my colleagues, we suggest that the government should call those destroying the environment and hold them accountable. Some people have even cut down forests, yet we all know the importance of forests to human life,” Lubega added.

He warned that if the government continues to enforce environmental laws selectively, the country risks losing the few remaining forests and wetlands.

Last year, the government, through the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), evicted residents from the Lubigi Wetland in Kampala. The evictions sparked criticism from some residents who claimed they were not given enough time to vacate peacefully.

However, NEMA officials dismissed the claims, stating that residents had been given ample time to leave the wetland but failed to comply.

The authority warned that people still occupying wetlands elsewhere should vacate voluntarily before enforcement measures are taken, emphasizing that such actions are carried out in accordance with the laws of Uganda.