The government has declared a decisive end to the long-standing amnesty that had shielded wetland encroachers from harsh punishment, setting the stage for a nationwide crackdown on environmental destruction. Water and Environment Minister Gen. Kahinda Otafiire announced the move during the National Environment Sustainability Awards (NESA) 2026 in Kampala, warning that those occupying wetlands illegally must leave immediately or face serious consequences.
In a fiery address, Otafiire condemned the continued invasion of wetlands, arguing that these ecosystems were never meant for human settlement or commercial exploitation. He questioned why people continue to occupy areas that play a critical role in preserving nature, insisting that the destruction of wetlands has gone on for far too long.The minister made it clear that the operation will not only target individuals and businesses encroaching on protected areas but also government officials who have enabled the illegal activities.
According to Otafiire, those who issue unlawful approvals, land titles, or permits that facilitate environmental degradation will also be held accountable.He stressed that wetlands are essential for filtering pollutants and protecting water sources from contamination. Their destruction, he warned, allows harmful substances to flow directly into rivers and lakes, threatening communities that depend on these resources for drinking water, agriculture, and fishing.Backing the minister’s concerns, Bank of Uganda Governor Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego warned that climate change and environmental degradation are increasingly becoming economic threats. He explained that extreme weather events, poor harvests, damaged infrastructure, and rising business costs can weaken the country’s financial stability and slow economic growth.
The governor called on both public and private sector players to invest heavily in climate-smart solutions. He highlighted technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, and digital finance as important tools that can help Uganda adapt to climate challenges while creating new economic opportunities.NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasa echoed the urgent calls for action, describing environmental degradation as one of the greatest threats facing humanity today.
He noted that Uganda’s natural resources support everything from agriculture and tourism to energy generation and water conservation, making their protection a national priority.While the awards ceremony celebrated innovators, environmental champions, and institutions promoting sustainability, Otafiire’s warning dominated the event. His message was direct and uncompromising: the days of forgiveness are over, and anyone destroying wetlands—or helping others to do so—should expect the law to come knocking.
