Ibanda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Godfrey Mbetegyereize has expressed deep frustration over the failure of Ibanda Municipality environment officials to protect natural resources, particularly the Kirimirire wetland, which continues to face encroachment.
Speaking during a council meeting at the Ibanda District Headquarters on Wednesday, Mbetegyereize accused some officials of turning a blind eye to the destruction of the wetland, which serves as a vital water source for the community.
He attributed their inaction to corruption and a lack of accountability.
"There is clear evidence that this wetland is being degraded, yet those responsible for enforcing the law remain silent. It is their duty to protect the environment, and they must take immediate action," the RDC stated.
In early March, Mbetegyereize ordered the arrest of two businessmen, Godwin Tusiime, a coffee trader, and Muzamiru Bateyo, a furniture dealer, for allegedly encroaching on the wetland along the Ibanda-Mbarara road.
However, the suspects were later released on bail, and no further action was taken.
"Some leaders are part of the problem instead of offering solutions. The environment officer seems unaware or unwilling to address what is happening. We cannot allow this to continue," he added.
Efforts by the Nile Post to get a comment from Robert Tumwesigye, the Ibanda Municipality Senior Environment Officer, were unsuccessful as he declined to respond.
Environmental degradation caused by corruption undermines conservation efforts, enabling illegal activities such as wetland encroachment, deforestation, and pollution.
The RDC has now called for urgent intervention to ensure the strict enforcement of environmental laws and the protection of Ibanda’s natural resources.