President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has thrown his support behind the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in its efforts to remove individuals encroaching on the Lubigi wetland. He urged those affected to leave voluntarily and avoid blaming NEMA for enforcing environmental laws.
The eviction process, which started late last month, has rendered thousands of people homeless. This move has sparked criticism from various government officials, opposition members, and the public, who argue that some residents have occupied the wetland for many years under valid land agreements.
Speaking at the 3rd Uganda Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) conference at Speke Resort Convention Centre in Kampala, President Museveni questioned why NEMA did not act earlier to prevent settlement in the wetland. He pointed out that identifying a swamp does not require NEMA’s intervention, drawing on his personal experiences from the Luweero Triangle war, during which he noted the absence of settlements in Lubigi.
The President expressed sympathy for residents in regions like Busoga, Bukedi, and Kigezi, who he said were misled by previous governments into cultivating rice in swamps. He refuted claims of long-term residency in Lubigi, insisting that no one lived there during his military campaigns.
Museveni called on NEMA to cooperate with local leaders, such as parish chiefs and security officers, to monitor and prevent wetland encroachment. He advised security personnel to conduct evictions peacefully, noting that some residents are willing to leave on their own.
Highlighting the environmental significance of wetlands, Museveni warned that their destruction could lead to desertification in Uganda, as wetlands contribute significantly to rain formation and act as natural water filters.
In his address, President Museveni also tackled corruption, emphasizing his commitment to eradicating it. He criticized leaders who misuse public funds, causing public disillusionment.
Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja praised the President for his anti-corruption efforts within government agencies, including Parliament and the Judiciary. In response to the ongoing investigations into corruption, Secretary General of the Patriotic League of Uganda, David Kabanda, urged the police to conduct thorough and unbiased investigations.
The investigations, initiated by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among on August 25, 2023, revealed numerous fraudulent claims and double payments within cooperatives. The parliamentary committee recommended further investigation of current and former MPs by the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Inspector General of Government. Among those implicated are former Kyankwanzi District Woman MP Ann Maria Nankabirwa and lawyers Ezra Kabali and Nandaah Wamukoota.
