The Ministry of Water and Environment has launched the ‘Save River Manafwa’ campaign, a major initiative aimed at protecting the vital water source from depletion due to human activity and climate change.
The campaign was highlighted by a marathon, dubbed “Save River Manafwa,” intended to raise awareness about water source protection and foster partnerships for sustainable conservation efforts.
The event also marked the conclusion of the Regional Water and Environment Week commemoration, under the theme, “Water and Environment for Peace and Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation.”
The marathon drew participation from professional athletes and corporate runners, who competed in different race categories.
Former Commonwealth Games champion Moses Kipsiro flagged off the event, which saw corporate participants cover 5km and 10km, while professional runners completed a 20km race from Mbale town to River Manafwa in Busiu along the Mbale-Tororo road.
Speaking at the event, Maximo Teinomuhanji, the principal hydrologist and Team Leader of the Kayonga Water Management Zone, highlighted the urgent need to protect the river from deforestation, erosion, and pollution.
“Uncontrolled tree cutting, soil erosion, and sedimentation have severely impacted River Manafwa. When it rains, the river floods, affecting both water quality and the intake for National Water and Sewerage Corporation,” Teinomuhanji noted.
He emphasised the need for reforestation with bamboo, agroforestry, and better soil and water conservation techniques to prevent further degradation.
The Ministry has pledged to scale up conservation efforts, including reinforcing earlier initiatives to restore the riverbanks and encourage sustainable land use.
The campaign is particularly significant for Mbale and surrounding districts, where water shortages have intensified as major rivers dry up, affecting domestic water supply and agriculture.
For instance, River Nabuyonga and Nabigyo, where the National Water and Sewerage Corporation drains water, have dried up, leaving River Manafwa as the only lifeline for urban water supply.
As the marathon concluded, participants renewed calls for collective action, urging local communities to take part in protecting and restoring water sources.
With sustained conservation efforts, River Manafwa’s survival remains a priority, ensuring its lifeline role in the region’s water supply and ecological balance.