UPC calls for review of Lubigi evictees resettlement plan
The Uganda People's Congress (UPC) party has called on the government to revisit and improve its plans for resettling those evicted from the Lubigi wetland by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
These remarks followed the recent demolition of homes and evictions carried out by NEMA in Kampala’s Lubigi wetland, which has sparked debate over the fairness and legality of these actions.
NEMA has defended the ongoing demolitions, stating that the restoration exercise is crucial for preserving the Lubigi wetland system, a vital water catchment area for Kampala and neighboring districts.
Speaking to the media in Kampala on Wednesday, UPC Head of Media and Communications Faizal Muzei emphasised the government's responsibility to protect those evicted from Lubigi and other wetlands.
“UPC reminds the government that it is its obligation to protect the people and their property. So, even the evicted people and/or those to be evicted from the wetlands deserve care and help from the government,” Muzei said.
Muzei also stressed that people should be allowed to relocate all their property before demolitions take place, criticizing NEMA's current approach as ruthless.
Highlighting the environmental significance of wetlands, Muzei pointed out their role in moderating climate, serving as water reservoirs, reducing floods, providing pasture for livestock, and housing various species. He warned that neglecting wetland protection could exacerbate the impacts of climate change.
While UPC supports the government’s irrigation schemes as a modern farming method, Muzei emphasized the need to protect wetlands first. He also addressed public concerns over selective evictions by NEMA, insisting that the law should be enforced fairly and without bias.
In response to Uganda’s increasing youthful population and the resulting pressure on natural resources, Muzei emphasized the urgent need for sustainable land use practices. He stressed the importance of developing virgin areas into proper settlement schemes.
“This protects the wetlands and general environment as everything is done with proper land use patterns. Much as it is a heavy investment, it is a worthy undertaking,” he said, drawing parallels to historical relocations in the Kigezi sub-region during the 1960s and 1970s.
Bunyoro, which continues to host people displaced by landslides and floods, serves as a testament to the effectiveness of such initiatives.
The UPC’s concerns come at a time when NEMA has launched operations to protect wetlands across several districts, including Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Mbale, Mbarara, and Arua. The party criticised central and local governments, along with NEMA, for lapses in duty that allowed wetland encroachment to escalate.
“Human activities have gone beyond the normal wetland activities to establishing permanent human settlements and factories,” Muzei noted.
As Uganda grapples with an increasing youthful population and environmental challenges, the UPC's call for sustainable land use and proper management of natural resources aims to secure the country’s future.
