Otuke district fights wetland encroachment amid climate threats

29 January 2026, 11:30 am

By Denis Okello

Otuke District continues to face challenges in removing people from wetlands as authorities intensify efforts to protect these vital ecosystems.

Wetlands play a crucial role in controlling floods, retaining water, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

For years, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has been educating communities on the importance of wetland conservation. Despite these efforts, many locals continue to farm and build on wetlands instead of relocating to safer upland areas.

Recently, NEMA, in partnership with Facilitation for Peace and Development (FAPAD), visited Adwari Sub county. Farmers from Alek-loo Atin, Agwila, Adyerakonya, Acung-Apenyi, and Akailo villages in Adyerakonya Parish were trained on sustainable upland farming and wetland protection.

Jokaka Geoffrey, NEMA’s Northern Uganda Regional Coordinator, urged farmers to protect wetlands to prevent soil erosion, safeguard farmlands, and maintain natural water cycles.

He also advised against bush burning and encouraged tree planting to improve soil fertility and boost crop yields.

Asiyati Gift, an agricultural extension officer at FAPAD, noted that wetlands continue to be degraded because some farmers disregard advice on sustainable, climate-smart farming promoted by experts and NGOs.

In 2021, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni issued a ban on all wetland cultivation.

This directive marked a significant step in protecting Uganda’s environment, restoring degraded wetlands, and helping communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.