By Mulengera Reporters
Uganda’s water and environment resources are facing growing threats, and leaders are calling for urgent action to protect them.
While at the Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK) 2025, on Monday, at the Ministry of Water and Environment headquarters in Kampala, State Minister for Environment Beatrice Anywar Atim acknowledged the government’s efforts in setting up policies and legal frameworks to guide sustainable resource management.
However, she warned that despite these measures, the ministry faces significant challenges that are slowing down progress in achieving its mandate.
“The Ministry is faced with many challenges which have greatly constrained the implementation of its core functions and attainment of its mandate,” Minister Anywar stated. She pointed out that the continued degradation of water catchments and the environment is making it difficult to manage Uganda’s natural resources effectively. Like a farmer who plants but does not weed, she warned that if conservation efforts are not strengthened, Uganda risks losing its natural wealth, which supports agriculture, clean water supply, and climate stability.
The Uganda Water and Environment Week 2025, running under the theme “Water and Environment Resources for Enhanced Resilience and Improved Incomes and Livelihoods,” has brought together government officials, experts, and development partners to discuss solutions to environmental challenges.
The event was officially opened by Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, who represented Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa as the chief guest.
Anywar stressed the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts. Uganda’s forests, wetlands, and water bodies continue to face destruction from human activities such as deforestation and poor land use practices. She urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector players, and local communities, to take collective responsibility in protecting the country’s natural resources.
The event serves as a crucial reminder that just as a river does not refuse any stream, everyone has a role to play in securing the country’s natural resources for generations to come. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).