Kamwenge District leaders, working with the Joint Efforts to Save the Environment (JESE), have renewed their commitment to conserving River Mpanga, a critical water source for the district and its neighbors.
The pledge was made during a joint monitoring exercise supported by JESE, amid concerns over continued degradation caused by human encroachment along the riverbanks.
Led by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Harriet Katusiime, district officials and JESE staff toured affected areas in Busiriba Sub-county, where interventions have begun to regenerate previously degraded sections.
The visit was followed by a strategy meeting at Igogora Country Resort to chart a long-term conservation plan.
Katusiime urged leaders to take responsibility for environmental protection.
“We are duty-bound to conserve and protect the environment,” she said. “Each office must play its role to ensure that degraded sections of River Mpanga are fully restored.”
Busiriba Sub-county Chief Alfred Kalemera emphasized the need for community ownership of conservation efforts.
“We need to sensitize the public about sustaining this river with or without JESE’s direct involvement,” he said, calling for the promotion of alternative livelihoods for riverside communities.
JESE Communications and Advocacy Manager Caroline Athieno stressed the urgency of sustained awareness.
“Nature can live without people, but people cannot live without nature,” she remarked.
District Speaker Gerald Twebaze pledged continuous support, noting that sensitization and cooperation would be key to preserving the river.
At the close of the meeting, leaders agreed to intensify awareness campaigns, enforce environmental regulations, and promote alternative income-generating activities to reduce pressure on River Mpanga’s fragile ecosystem.
