Eritrean ordered to restore Kansanga wetland
The court on June 16, 2025, fined Khasay shillings 15 million or serve two years imprisonment in default.
Eritrean national Futur Khasay faced two charges for depositing murram in the wetland; and constructing a structure and a perimeter wall in the same wetland without NEMA’s approval. (Courtesy photos)
By Charles Etukuri
Journalists @New Vision
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The Makindye Utilities Court has convicted Eritrean national Futur Khasay for unlawful degradation of Kansanga wetland at Bbunga-Soya Cell, Makindye division in Kampala District.
The court on June 16, 2025, fined Khasay shillings 15 million or serve two years imprisonment in default.
He was also ordered to restore the degraded wetland to its original ecological condition within three months from the date of conviction.
Khasay faced two charges under the National Environment Act, Cap 181: Depositing murram in a wetland contrary to Section 55(1)(d) & (6), for depositing murram in the wetland; and constructing a structure and a perimeter wall in the same wetland without NEMA’s approval.
The ongoing activities were immediately halted by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and two vehicles involved were impounded: a Sino truck, and a backhoe tractor.
Kansanga wetland, located in Makindye Division in Kampala district has been encroached and degraded due to what NEMA says is due to urban development and population growth.
Conservation is key
Water minister Dr Sam Cheptoris during an event last year, said despite the progress the country has made in wetland conservation from 8.9% to 9.8%, there is still a need for all Ugandans to engage in the restoration efforts.
The decline recorded between 1994 and 2015, was 6,146.6 sq. km of wetlands lost, representing 2.5% of Uganda’s total coverage of wetlands.
He said the wetlands have got fish and are breeding grounds for species alike, adding that encroaching on them threatens the existence of these species.
“In the onset of climate change, things are likely to be worse. There will be more rain, flooding and perhaps this is when Ugandans will start understanding the urgency of wetlands conservation,” Cheptoris said.
“The president has ordered us to evict people from wetlands, as authorities have, we don't do our part. We must act without fear or favour,” he said.
“Wetlands play a vital role in the hydrological cycle, which is responsible for the country’s agricultural production that is more than 80% dependant on nature,” he said.