Residents of Rukungiri District have been urged to halt the degradation of swamps to safeguard the environment. This call was made by Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ahimbisiibwe Wilberforce Ongwom during the launch of cocoa seedlings and beekeeping equipment at Nyakagyeme sub-county headquarters in Rujumbura County.
Ongwom emphasized that the initiative aims to provide alternative economic activities for those who have been relying on swamp resources. “By introducing these new opportunities, we hope to help people earn a living and combat poverty,” he stated.
He encouraged the groups receiving cocoa seedlings and beekeeping tools to use them effectively and reassured others that the government program is designed to benefit all community members.
Ritah Kiteme, a social worker in the Ministry of Water and Environment at the Regional Office of the Albert Water Management Zone in Fort Portal, highlighted the importance of the irrigation for climate resilience project. This initiative, funded by the World Bank in partnership with the Ugandan government, began in March and aims to improve water access for irrigation, thereby fostering resilience in agricultural practices and protecting swamps and catchment areas.
Kiteme noted that the project includes measures for catchment management, such as promoting tree planting and implementing better farming practices that support the irrigation schemes planned for Enengo and Matanda micro-catchments.
Local residents expressed their gratitude for the income-generating programs. Orishaba Penrope from Rwerere Town Council and Kotunga Boaz from Nyakabungo in Buyanja Town Council thanked the government and expressed eagerness to benefit from the initiatives. Boaz, a beekeeper, mentioned the challenges they faced due to lack of equipment, but now with the new support, they expect to enhance their beekeeping efforts.
The community’s commitment to these programs signifies a collective effort towards sustainable development and environmental conservation in Rukungiri District
