NEMA Halts Okole Wetland Destruction in Lira, Citing Flood and Health Risks

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has successfully intervened to halt the alleged illegal encroachment and degradation of the Okole Wetland in Lira City. Environmentalists warn that unchecked development in the wetland, exacerbated by potential official corruption, poses significant risks of immediate flooding and long-term public health crises for the city’s inhabitants.

An enforcement operation, involving the Environmental Police, discovered a prominent developer engaged in backfilling the wetland without the necessary legal approvals. Despite official maps designating Okole Wetland as a protected area, substantial degradation had reportedly occurred near a stream that feeds into the main wetland. An environmental police officer noted that a culvert had been installed, restricting the natural water flow and exacerbating the ecological damage.

The effort to halt the destruction was reportedly hampered by a prolonged “blame game” between the Lira City environment officer’s office and NEMA, with each body seemingly deferring responsibility for enforcement. Concerns have been raised about developers allegedly using bribes to officials to bypass proper environmental impact assessments and to proceed with work even after proposals have been rejected by NEMA’s executive director.

A NEMA official explained that wetland destruction directly impacts Lira residents. Backfilling efforts raise land levels, diverting floodwaters into lower-income neighborhoods. Furthermore, the loss of the wetland’s natural water filtration capabilities, coupled with the discharge of industrial effluent, is leading to contamination of local water sources. This contamination is linked to an increase in serious health issues, including various cancers and throat infections among communities relying on these streams.

While immediate livelihoods often conflict with long-term environmental sustainability, initiatives are underway to address these challenges. A Shs5.4 billion project led by Join for Water aims to promote sustainable wetland management and combat soil degradation in the Aswa sub-catchments. This project emphasizes community education on sustainable resource use and encourages alternative livelihoods such as harvesting medicinal herbs or crafting materials, to reduce reliance on activities that harm the water system. The focus is on changing mindsets to ensure environmental stewardship for future generations.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)