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NEMA halts illegal wetland works in Ssezibwa, Wakiso district
NEMA explained that “during this operation, NEMA secured the arrest of the key individuals involved in the unauthorised development to aid further investigations. Heavy machinery that had been deployed in the wetland was impounded for safe custody.”
(Courtesy)
By: Charles Etukuri, Journalists @New Vision
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The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) says it has halted illegal wetland works in the Ssezibwa Catchment System in Wakiso district, arrested key suspects and impounded the machinery being used on the site.
In a notice shared on Monday (February 23), the authority said, “NEMA, supported by security agencies, has halted illegal wetland works in the Ssezibwa Catchment System, Wakiso District. Key suspects arrested and machinery impounded. No approvals had been issued for the planned industrial facility. Wetlands are protected by law, and enforcement continues.”
(Courtesy)
(Courtesy)
NEMA explained that “during this operation, NEMA secured the arrest of the key individuals involved in the unauthorised development to aid further investigations. Heavy machinery that had been deployed in the wetland was impounded for safe custody.”
However, it did not name the suspects who were arrested.
The notice further indicated that “subsequent inspection revealed active dumping and earthworks within a section of the wetland system that forms part of the Ssezibwa Catchment System, a sensitive ecological resource. Workers on the site confirmed that the land was being prepared for an industrial facility intended for the manufacturing and recycling of spare parts. Critically, no approvals or permits had been issued by NEMA for any activities of this nature, rendering the project unlawful from the outset.”
The statement said, “NEMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting Uganda’s wetlands and enforcing environmental laws across the country. Wetlands are vital for biodiversity, water regulation and the wellbeing of surrounding communities. Any development within such ecosystem must strictly comply with established environmental requirements.”
NEMA spokesperson Naome Karekaho said that under the NEMA Act Cap 181, wetlands are legally protected.
“Any activity such as dumping, drainage, excavation, or construction requires prior written approval from NEMA. Wetland degradation constitutes an environmental offence. Penalties may include imprisonment of up to 12 years depending on the gravity of the violation; fines of up to sh600m for aggravated offences; or both imprisonments and fines for severe or repeated violations.”