Minister Baryomunsi Calls for Fair Compensation and Livelihood Alternatives for Evicted Wetland Residents

The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, has urged Environment and Natural Resources officers to halt the eviction of residents from wetlands unless they provide adequate alternative livelihoods.

His remarks came during the climax of the Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund (BAAF) 2024 at Rushoroza Cathedral in Kabale District.

Kigezi Sub-region has been facing a land shortage, resulting in widespread evictions from wetlands following a presidential directive in December 2023.

More than 200 farmers from the districts of Kabale, Rubanda, and Rukiga have been displaced, leading to significant losses for the affected communities.

Odo Tumukwasibwe, the head of Laity at Kabale Diocese, voiced concerns about the insufficient compensation offered to those evicted.

He criticized the government's current approach, which he said provides minimal alternatives for displaced families.

“I urge the government to provide sustainable livelihood options that meet the needs of affected families,” Tumukwasibwe said.

In response, Minister Baryomunsi acknowledged that the government had previously allowed people to settle in wetlands in regions like Kigezi, Busoga, and Bukedde.

He emphasized that authorities should not evict residents without providing proper compensation and ensuring fair treatment to prevent the residents from falling deeper into poverty.

“I want to encourage residents to conserve the environment. Wetlands, rivers, and lakes play a crucial role in maintaining favorable climatic conditions and supporting community well-being,” Minister Baryomunsi noted.

As Kigezi Sub-region struggles with land scarcity, many residents have encroached on wetlands for cultivation.

Moving forward, the government must find a way to balance environmental conservation with the needs of local communities.