The National Environment Management Authority has resumed operations to evict encroachers from the Lubigi Wetland in Kawaala, Rubaga Division, Kampala, reigniting concerns among residents and small business operators whose livelihoods are tied to the area.
The enforcement exercise is part of ongoing efforts by NEMA to restore wetlands and curb illegal settlement and commercial activities in protected environmental zones. Authorities say the operations are aimed at protecting the ecological importance of Lubigi Wetland, which plays a critical role in flood control and environmental conservation within Kampala.
However, the crackdown has left many residents worried about the loss of businesses and sources of income established in the area over the years.
“We had furniture workshops funded under Emyooga, but everything is going to be destroyed,” said affected resident Sulaiman Ssenyonga.
Many of the affected structures, reportedly homes, small scale enterprises, workshops and informal businesses supported under government livelihood initiatives such as the Emyooga programme. Residents argue that while environmental protection is important, the evictions are threatening already fragile economic livelihoods.
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NEMA has in recent years intensified enforcement campaigns against wetland encroachment across the country, insisting that restoration efforts are necessary to address flooding, environmental degradation, and the long term effects of climate change.