State House Arrests Lira Businessman For Constructing A Fuel Station In A Wetland

By Kato Jamil

The State House Anti Corruption yesterday arraigned Lira businessman, Okello Lawrence, before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court for constructing a fuel station in a wetland, in total disregard of the conditions set in the Certificate of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment by NEMA.

He has been remanded till 16/12/2024. 

The Unit says between March and December 2024, the accused stubbornly continued to carry out construction of a fuel station in Pece Swamp, Gulu city, in total violation of the physical planning laws, building control laws and NEMA certification.

”Investigations have revealed that Okello Lawrence is a reknown encroacher on gazzeted areas including wetlands, forest reserves and another public land,” says the Unit adding, ”Further investigations into his alleged involvement in numerous acts of encroachment on protected areas are still ongoing.”

Wetland encroachment in Uganda has become a pressing environmental concern, fueled by population growth, urbanization, agriculture, and industrial development. Wetlands, which cover approximately 11% of Uganda’s land area, provide critical ecological services, including water purification, flood control, and serving as habitats for biodiversity. However, these vital ecosystems are increasingly under threat.

Impacts of Wetland Encroachment:

• Decreased Water Quality: Pollution from agricultural runoff and waste affects the wetlands’ ability to purify water.
• Flooding: Loss of wetlands reduces natural flood control, increasing vulnerability to floods.
• Biodiversity Loss: Encroachment disrupts habitats for numerous species, leading to declines in biodiversity.
• Climate Change Effects: Wetlands act as carbon sinks; their destruction releases stored carbon, contributing to climate change.

The Ugandan government has initiated several measures to curb wetland encroachment, including:

• Restoring degraded wetlands.
• Enforcing environmental laws under the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
• Promoting alternative livelihoods to reduce dependency on wetlands.
• Raising public awareness about the importance of wetland conservation.

Despite these efforts, enforcement remains a challenge due to political interference, corruption, and resistance from affected communities.

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