By Mulengera Reporters
Wetland encroachment could soon be eliminated as the government of Uganda works to make it tough for the practice to flourish. According to Dr. Alfred Okidi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), the Government has moved to bolster its wetland monitoring mechanisms as it seeks to alleviate the impact resulting from the degradation of ecosystems.
Early this month, the government, through the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), penned an agreement with World Bicycle Relief (WBR), committing resources to enhance the positive impact of wetland conservation initiatives.
WBR will provide 200 bicycles to MWE under the Bicycle Ecosystems program. This is aimed at facilitating access to mobility solutions for system supervisors, parish chiefs, chairpersons of wetland management committees, and local council chairpersons. “We have been having a challenge with mobility for our people at the grassroots level. With WBR support, we are sure the safety of the wetlands is almost guaranteed. This is timely,” Okidi said.
The program targets 13 districts in four regions: central (Nakaseke, Mpigi, Luwero), western (Isingiro, Ntungamo, Sheema), northern (Oyam, Lira, Gulu, Kitgum) and eastern (Pallisa, Kibuku and Busia). The users shall be trained to ensure effective use. In addition, centralized repair centers have been setup in each region. The initiative is valued at US dollars 48,717.48, and entails components such as community engagement, participant engagement, monitoring, evaluation and reporting.
According to Mr. David Okurut, the Ag Director Department of Environment Affairs (DEA) at MWE, the 13 selected districts merited receiving support because the government already has made significant investment that need close monitoring and supervision from the systems operators, local leaders and parish chiefs who have a direct role in the ecosystem conservation.
“This initiative is going to help us curb repeated wetland encroachment that has been undermining our efforts, “Okurut adds. World Bicycle Relief / Buffalo Bicycles’ mission is to mobilize individuals and communities through the Power of Bicycles. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
