Former wetland encroachers compensated-Sheema
The government of Uganda with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has initiated alternative livelihood projects for former wetland encroachers in Sheema District to help mitigate the dangers associated with climate change.
At least 200 families from sub-counties including Kigarama, Kakindo Town, Masheruka Town Council, Shuuku Town Council, Kyangyenyi and Kitagata were evicted from wetlands in the district. In return for vacating these areas, they were promised alternative livelihoods.
On Thursday, December 19, 2024, Dr. Masembe Kamadini, the program’s focal person in the Ministry of Local Government distributed livestock to the families which included 10 heifers, 150 piglets and 1,280 chicks.
During the handover ceremony, Sheema District Resident District Commissioner, Fred Nayebare Kyamuzigita urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the animals provided. He cautioned against using the heifers as bride price highlighting their potential for economic empowerment through breeding and multiplication.
Sheema District Chairperson Jemima Tumwijukye Buhanda praised the public for complying with the government’s directive to vacate the wetlands noting that this decision positively contributed to environmental restoration in the area. She also expressed gratitude to the government for prioritizing support for those in need particularly those who willingly left the wetlands.
Patrick Turyatunga, the Sheema District Natural Resources Officer acknowledged the initial resistance to the wetland eviction directives but noted that sensitization meetings were instrumental in gaining community acceptance after assurances of compensation.
Turyatunga urged land owners near wetlands to maintain the recommended buffer zones to avoid penalties and stressed the importance of beneficiaries using their resources responsibly to ensure sustained benefits.
