Ntungamo District Launches an Ambitious Wetland Restoration Project

By Anthony Kushaba

Ntungamo

In a groundbreaking initiative to combat the adverse effects of climate change and safeguard the environment, Ntungamo District has embarked on a comprehensive wetland restoration project.

The endeavor, supported by the Green Climate Fund, aims to sensitize locals and stakeholders, ensuring the protection of existing wetlands and the restoration of those that have been depleted.

 
While meeting the locals of Rukoni West during the voluntary restoration exercise on Monday, Geoffrey Muchunguzi, the Resident District Commissioner of Ntungamo, expressed his appreciation for the local community’s active involvement in championing the restoration efforts.

He highlighted the project’s significance in mitigating the escalating impacts of climate change, which have led to the loss of agricultural land, infrastructure, and even human lives. Muchunguzi emphasized the need for collective responsibility in environmental protection, calling on all residents to play a role in preserving the district’s natural resources.

Ntungamo’s Chief Administrative Officer, Mathias Ndifuna, commended the collaborative efforts of stakeholders within the district and acknowledged the crucial support from the Green Climate Fund. Ndifuna reiterated the district’s commitment to backing the Natural Resources Department, emphasizing the importance of field engagement with communities to foster environmental protection.

Dinah Tumwebaze, the Ntungamo District Natural Resources Officer, underscored the universal responsibility of environmental protection. Tumwebaze called upon residents of the district and the entire country to unite in addressing the environmental challenges at hand. She further disclosed successful wetland restoration initiatives in Rweikiniro sub-county, where over 800 hectares of wetlands have been rehabilitated. Local residents who willingly vacated the area were provided with alternative livelihood support, including beehives for apiculture, goats, and assistance to engage in fish farming.

 
The Natural Resources Department has also achieved significant milestones in the Kayonza sub-county, where over 700 hectares of wetlands have been restored. These efforts signify a step forward in the district’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices and community involvement in preserving vital ecosystems.

 
As Ntungamo District takes strides in wetland restoration, the collaboration between local communities, government authorities, and international funding bodies showcases a promising model for proactive environmental conservation efforts. The initiative not only addresses the immediate impacts of climate change but also contributes to the long-term resilience of the region’s ecosystems and communities