Second Kaliddubi Wetland restoration drive starts

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The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), in partnership with the Environmental Protection Force, the Environmental Protection Police Unit, Territorial Police, and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, has officially launched the second phase of the Kaliddubi Wetland System restoration in Kibiri A, Busabala Parish, Makindye Division, Kampala City.

The restoration effort, which commenced on March 10, 2025, builds on the progress made during the first phase, which began in October 2024. During the initial phase, NEMA and its partners cleared a long stretch of flower nurseries and gardens to facilitate the regeneration of native tree species. Alongside this, an awareness campaign was conducted in Busabala, Buggu, Kibiri A & B, Kabuuma, Gangu, Lufuka, and Ndejje villages to educate local communities about the importance of wetland conservation.

NEMA executive director, Dr Barirega Akankwasah, emphasized the significance of the restoration initiative in preserving Uganda’s wetlands, which play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.

Kaliddubi Wetland, located in the Munyonyo area, originates in Makindye Ssabagabo, Wakiso district, historically stretching from Wankulukuku in Rubaga division to Entebbe Road and eventually draining into Lake Victoria at Munyonyo. Over the years, however, human activities such as agriculture, residential development and industrialisation have significantly degraded the wetland, reducing its size and ecological function.

The latest restoration operation targets key environmental violations, including the construction of makeshift iron sheet structures, semi-permanent business and residential buildings, backfilling with murram, and the diversion of wetland water through artificial drainage channels. Additionally, activities like cultivating banana suckers, yams, maize, and flower gardens in the wetland have been halted.

As part of the enforcement measures, all illegal structures were demolished to prevent further encroachment. Foreign plant species that had been introduced into the wetland were also removed. Public sensitisation efforts continue to inform local communities about the importance of halting further degradation.

NEMA has reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term protection of Uganda’s wetlands, stressing that any attempts to re-encroach on the restored sections of the Kaliddubi Wetland will face strict enforcement measures. The agency urges all stakeholders, including local communities, to actively support conservation efforts to ensure the success of the restoration.

Under Section 55 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, wetland degradation is a criminal offense, punishable by a fine not exceeding sh600m or imprisonment for up to 12 years, or both.