Wetland degradation in Bushenyi continues to pose a serious threat to water access, agriculture, and environmental health. Leaders and residents are sounding the alarm as brick making accelerates the destruction of critical swamps in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality.
As the population grows and urban housing expands, more people turn to wetlands to extract materials like clay for bricks. This unchecked activity has drained several swamps, including those stretching from Nyakabirizi Division through Bushenyi town and Kabagarame swamp to the Kyamugambira River.
Martin Mugurusya, a resident of Kagwa Town Council, described how drying wetlands have triggered a worsening water crisis. He explained that many residents dig clay from swamps to earn a living, but their actions deprive thousands of business owners and households of natural water sources.
Rosette Nahwera, a resident of Nyakabirizi, pointed out the loss of vegetation like papyrus and acacia, which were once used to make mats and local crafts. Farmers can no longer grow millet along wetland edges due to the encroachment. She blamed this on rapid population growth and the rising demand for fertile land.
Many people rely on brick making to survive. Andrew Kabuura, 23, from Ruharo Ward, said he uses a swamp area on family land to make bricks. Although people often view the job as lowly, he takes pride in using it to support his farm and avoid illegal activities. Still, this personal gain contributes to wetland degradation in Bushenyi.
Hillary Igambirine, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, urged citizens to take responsibility. He reminded residents that President Museveni had repeatedly asked people to vacate wetlands. However, many refuse to comply. Igambirine stressed that when wetlands disappear, wildlife and humans both face dire consequences.
Mwebaze Abbot, the senior environment officer for Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipal Council, emphasized that brick making must follow Uganda’s National Environment Act Cap 181. He said their office guides locals to refill excavated pits so wetlands can naturally recover. Despite these efforts, illegal brick activity persists.
Wetlands in Uganda currently cover about 29,000 square kilometers—13% of the nation’s land. Unfortunately, this coverage continues to shrink. Wetland degradation in Bushenyi is a clear example of how economic needs can clash with environmental sustainability.
Local leaders are calling for strict penalties, such as jail time or fines, for people who degrade wetlands. They argue that without firm enforcement, encroachment will continue. Conservationists also push for education campaigns to help locals understand the value of wetlands and the long-term impact of their destruction.
Protecting wetlands means safeguarding water security, biodiversity, and climate resilience. For Bushenyi and other parts of Uganda, urgent action must balance development needs with the preservation of these vital ecosystems.
Read: “The Rich Are Untouchable” – Uganda’s Struggles to Protect Its Wetlands