Authorities in Buyende district have reclaimed a vast wetland in Nabigaaga to grow livestock pasture, evicting hundreds of rice and sugarcane farmers.
The 15km–20km wetland stretches from Igoola village to Kiige village before joining River Nile.
Dr George Fredrick Kabbale, the district production and marketing officer, says the wetland was overused and degraded, depleting 85% of the livestock pasture.
“Over the years, the wetland was the livestock’s haven during dry spells, which is the opposite today,” Kabbale said.
Paul Mwene, the senior district environment officer, said degraded wetlands cannot filter water, which affects marine life.
Restoring the wetlands follows a decree by the water ministry to reduce degradation practices. Consequently, the wetland has been demarcated using concrete pillars.
Within eight months, only livestock will be allowed in the wetland.
Farmers’ concerns
The decree has sent rice and sugarcane farmers into panic. Aidah Nabirye, a farmer, lamented that families would face hunger.
“The communities, especially the children, will face malnutrition,” Nabirye said.
Sharif Biguyi, the Bugaya LC3 chairperson, suggested promoting upland rice farming at reduced rates, while Buyende district chairperson Michael Kanaku called for sensitisation on sustainable wetland use.
Government’s stance
President Yoweri Museveni emphasised the importance of conserving wetlands, suggesting fish farming as an alternative to rice.
With the Parish Development Model prioritising livestock, having enough pasture is crucial, Kabbale said.
The gazetting of wetlands nationwide started in 2017, with the erection of concrete pillars in different wetlands countrywide aimed at creating awareness that wetlands belong to the Government and should be utilised responsibly.
The move has sparked a debate about the balance between environmental conservation and economic livelihoods. While the Government aims to protect the wetlands, farmers are concerned about their livelihoods. It remains to be seen how government will support the affected farmers and ensure sustainable use of the wetlands.
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Rice field in Buyende district. Farmers had reclaimed wetlands for farming purposes.
