By Mulengera Reporters
Religious leaders have called for stronger efforts in environmental conservation, emphasizing the moral and spiritual responsibility to protect Uganda’s wetlands and natural resources.
Speaking at Uganda Water and Environment Week 2025, Fr. John Peter Musumba, Director of Caritas Kampala, who represented His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, Archbishop of Kampala, underscored the shared duty of safeguarding creation for both present and future generations.
“This important event reminds us of the responsibility we share in safeguarding God’s creation, which is not only essential to our faith but also to the well-being of future generations,” Fr. Musumba stated, highlighting the church’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
He stressed the critical role of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance, purifying water, and sustaining livelihoods. “Wetlands are crucial ecosystems that play a vital role in our environment and particularly in purifying water that, if managed well, enhances resilience, income, and livelihoods,” he said.
Calling for urgent action, Fr. Musumba emphasized that restoring and protecting wetlands would strengthen their capacity to purify, store, and maintain the ecological integrity of Uganda’s landscape. He urged communities, policymakers, and religious institutions to take an active role in conservation.
“As a church, we are called and promise to be witnesses of hope and agents of change in protecting the environment,” he declared, reaffirming the commitment of faith-based organizations to advocacy and practical solutions for sustainability.
He further emphasized that environmental conservation is not just a scientific or economic concern but a moral obligation. “The conservation of our wetlands is not a mere environmental issue but also a moral imperative,” he asserted, calling on all stakeholders to unite in the fight against environmental degradation.
Fr. Musumba’s message reinforced the growing involvement of religious institutions in environmental conservation efforts, positioning faith-based organizations as key partners in Uganda’s journey toward sustainable development. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
