NEMA’s Discriminatory Wetland Evictions Stir Controversy

KAMPALA – The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has come under intense scrutiny and criticism following a series of evictions from wetlands across Uganda. Allegations of stark discrimination have emerged, with accusations that NEMA is selectively targeting certain individuals and small-scale farmers while turning a blind eye to large companies and influential business magnates.

Eye-Catching Kaazi Wetland Construction Video: The Down Trodden In Lubigi Are Suffering At The Whims Of NEMA While The Affluent Are Left Scot Free.

Residents and local environmental activists have voiced their concerns, citing the glaring exception of Kenyan-owned Stabex International, a major fuel company. Despite numerous reports of their operations encroaching upon wetland areas, Stabex continues its activities unabated, raising questions about the impartiality of NEMA’s enforcement actions.

Adding to the controversy, the expansive Speke Resort Munyonyo, situated along the shores of Lake Victoria, has been at the center of environmental violations. The resort, owned by tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, has been actively reclaiming significant portions of Lake Victoria to facilitate its expansion. Onlookers have witnessed the daily dumping of hardcore stones and soil into the lake, a blatant breach of environmental regulations that has seemingly gone unnoticed by NEMA officials.

Advertising

In another alarming instance, large-scale construction is underway in the Kaazi wetland, an area purportedly protected under environmental laws. Despite clear evidence of wetland degradation and the erection of substantial structures, NEMA’s inaction in Kaazi stands in stark contrast to its aggressive stance on smaller, less influential encroachers.

The uneven application of environmental laws has sparked a wave of public outcry. “It’s disheartening to see the selective enforcement of laws,” said an anonymous local activist. “While the small farmers are ruthlessly evicted, big businesses continue to devastate our wetlands with impunity.”

NEMA, tasked with protecting Uganda’s natural resources, has yet to provide a satisfactory explanation for the perceived disparities in its enforcement actions. The agency’s credibility is at stake as the public demands accountability and transparency in the protection of the country’s vital ecosystems.

The unfolding developments call for a closer examination of NEMA’s practices and a re-evaluation of the measures necessary to ensure fair and effective environmental protection in Uganda.