
Story by Ivan Mugisha
Kitagwenda District, Uganda — Authorities in Kitagwenda District have arrested four individuals accused of encroaching on and degrading the Rwentuha wetland, a critical tributary of River Mpanga.
The suspects, identified as Francis Tayebwa, Deo Byamukama, Julius Akampulira, and Jackson Mulindi, were reportedly involved in constructing a permanent house within the protected wetland area. The property is believed to belong to Col. Harold Twinomujuni Akiniagi, a serving officer in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), who had previously erected temporary structures on the same site.
Ronald Nsabumukiza, the Officer in Charge (OC) at Kitagwenda Police Station, confirmed the arrests and outlined the measures being taken to address the violation. Authorities are investigating the case and considering legal action against the suspects to deter further environmental degradation.
Wetlands like Rwentuha are vital for maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, and protecting water resources. Environmental activists and local leaders have repeatedly warned against human activities that threaten these ecosystems, calling for stricter enforcement of conservation laws.
The district leadership has urged the public to respect environmental regulations and collaborate with authorities to safeguard natural resources. This incident has reignited concerns over the enforcement of environmental protection laws, particularly when influential individuals are involved.