environment 26 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kisoro Authorities Issue Eviction Order for Chibumba Swamp Encroachers
Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Sebyala has ordered farmers encroaching on the Chibumba swamp to vacate by next week's end or face forced removal. The move aims to restore the wetland, which has been degraded by crop cultivation and sand mining, leading to flooding in nearby areas. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/encroachers-ordered-off-chibumba-swamp-5404550
Authorities in Kisoro District have given encroachers cultivating crops in the Chibumba swamp until the end of next week to leave voluntarily, or they will be evicted by force.
Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Sebyala issued the order during a joint visit by the district security and natural resources committees on March 26. He instructed farmers to harvest their existing crops within one week.
Over 20 acres in Chibumba and Mpundu villages, part of Chahafi Town Council, have been planted with Irish potatoes, maize, yams, cabbage, sweet potatoes, and more. Around 400 households are involved, according to local LC I Chairperson Byomuhangi Andrew.
Sebyala, speaking on behalf of the President, emphasized restoring wetlands and warned against future encroachments, promising legal action for violators. He highlighted how tampering with the swamp has caused flooding that threatens Chibumba Public School and the local trading centre, as it acts as a catchment for rainwater from Murora and Kanaba hills.
District Environment Officer Eunice Akankwasa called on residents to stop sand mining, which has worsened degradation, citing the National Environment Act that prohibits wetland ownership. Chahafi Town Clerk Dan Munyambabazi pointed to politicians hindering eviction efforts.
Security forces will enforce the directive after the deadline passes.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)