Politics 23 May 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Bukedi MPs Challenge Government Over Wetland Bans, Demand Livelihood Support
Newly elected Members of Parliament from the Bukedi sub-region are raising concerns over government bans on wetland rice cultivation and fishing, asserting that these environmental measures are leaving communities without viable income alternatives. The MPs are calling for urgent government intervention to provide support and develop new economic opportunities for the region. Source: https://observer.ug/news/mps-question-govt-rice-growing-ban-in-bukedi
Members of Parliament representing constituencies across the Bukedi sub-region have voiced strong opposition to recent government directives restricting rice growing in wetlands and certain fishing activities. The legislators argue that these environmental protection measures, while potentially well-intentioned, are exacerbating poverty in an already economically vulnerable area.
MPs from districts including Butebo, Bunyole East, Tororo North, Samia Bugwe North, Namayingo South, Kabweri, Butaleja, and Kibuku highlighted that their constituents heavily relied on these activities for both sustenance and income. Butebo MP Fred Mudukoi Oduchu stated that the ban on wetland rice farming has left many households struggling, emphasizing the need for government investment in alternative livelihoods such as fish farming, poultry, coffee, and cocoa.
Echoing these sentiments, Bunyole East MP Ronald Mutego Hangujja stressed the priority of establishing skilling centers and promoting perennial crops. Kabweri MP Dr. Patrick Wakida plans to leverage the Bukedi Strategic Plan to address deficiencies in public services like schools and health centers and advocates for increased funding for agricultural projects and local factories to create jobs.
Namayingo South MP Willy Ouma pointed out the impact of fishing restrictions on household incomes and proposed regulated fishing seasons. Tororo North MP Simon Nicholas Owino described poverty as a deep-seated issue and committed to encouraging perennial crop cultivation and irrigation, while also noting the lack of electricity infrastructure.
Further concerns were raised by Butaleja MP Sarah Annet Logose regarding high rates of teenage pregnancies and the urgent need for improvements in education and healthcare. Kibuku MP Sylvia Katooko Damba highlighted the dilapidated state of the district’s secondary school and the absence of a vocational school, particularly impacting girl-child education.
The collective message from the Bukedi MPs is a call for coordinated government action, emphasizing that environmental policies must be coupled with concrete plans and financial support to ensure the economic survival and development of affected communities. They intend to collaborate on lobbying for increased funding and development programs to uplift the region.
This story was first reported by The Observer (Uganda).