Authorities in Kibaale District have warned that individuals encroaching on wetlands and forest reserves will face arrest as the district shifts from public sensitisation campaigns to enforcement measures aimed at protecting the environment.
The warning was issued by Assistant Resident District Commissioner Godfrey Asiimwe during a stakeholders’ meeting at the district council hall on Wednesday marking the close of the 2025/26 financial year.
Asiimwe said environmental degradation had become a growing concern in the district, with continued encroachment on wetlands and forest reserves threatening livelihoods, biodiversity and economic activities.
“The time for gentle reminders is over. People have continued to destroy wetlands and forests despite repeated warnings. We are now moving to enforce the law,” he said.
According to Asiimwe, enforcement efforts are in line with government environmental protection policies and a recent presidential directive on wetland conservation.
He said operations would target all offenders, including local leaders accused of failing to act against environmental violations.
“Whether you are a farmer cultivating in a wetland or a leader who chooses to look the other way, the law will catch up with you,” Asiimwe said.
District officials say activities such as wetland drainage, cultivation in protected ecosystems and illegal tree cutting remain widespread despite years of awareness campaigns.
Asiimwe warned that environmental degradation was also contributing to increased human-wildlife conflict as shrinking habitats force animals into human settlements.
“Nature does not attack unless it is cornered. When people clear forests and invade wetlands, they reduce the habitats where animals live, increasing the likelihood of conflict,” he said.
Environmental activists attending the meeting said continued encroachment could have long-term consequences for agriculture and water resources.
Musa Mugira, chairperson of Greater Kibaale Environmental Restoration, said wetlands and forests play a critical role in regulating climate, protecting water sources and supporting agricultural production.
“Our wetlands and forests are not just pieces of land. They regulate our climate, support agriculture, protect water sources and contribute to tourism,” Mugira said.
He warned that continued destruction of natural ecosystems could accelerate biodiversity loss, reduce agricultural productivity and contribute to more erratic weather patterns.
The warning comes amid growing concern over pressure on protected areas as population growth increases demand for land.
Former State Minister for Bunyoro Affairs Janipher Namuyangu said communities in the region were already experiencing the effects of climate-related challenges, including prolonged droughts, floods and declining forest cover.
“Residents of Bunyoro must wake up and conserve the environment. If we continue on this path, we shall face the full impact of climate change,” Namuyangu said.
She called for stricter implementation of environmental protection directives and stronger enforcement against violators.
Some residents acknowledged that land shortages had contributed to encroachment on wetlands.
Henry Mukasa, a small-scale farmer from Kibiito Parish, said he had been cultivating crops in a wetland due to limited access to alternative land but had agreed to vacate the area following government directives.
“I understand the government’s concern and have agreed to leave the swamp as directed. I call upon others occupying wetlands to do the same so that we can protect the environment,” Mukasa said.
District leaders said they would continue working with environmental officers, security agencies and local communities to ensure compliance with conservation laws and restore degraded ecosystems.