Tensions are rising in Kampala, Uganda as residents facing the Lubigi Wetland evictions clashed with authorities over their planned displacement. On Thursday, September 19, 2024, police halted a meeting organized by Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago with residents threatened by the evictions. These residents, who were expecting to discuss their concerns with the mayor, were left angered and frustrated by the police intervention.
The evictions are being carried out by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) as part of a crackdown on wetland encroachment. NEMA argues that the residents are illegally occupying the wetland, which plays a crucial role in the city’s ecosystem.
However, the affected residents, many of whom have lived in the area for a considerable time, claim they possess legal documentation for their land. They are demanding compensation for their properties before any eviction takes place.
The residents, led by Kawaala A chairperson Wilberforce Sserwaniko, argue that NEMA should engage in dialogue and respect their ownership claims. They submitted a petition to NEMA on June 14, 2024, seeking compensation and highlighting the impact of the impending Lubigi Wetland evictions. However, they claim that NEMA executive director, Barirega Akankwansah, has not yet responded to their petition.
“We aske NEMA to engage in dialogue with us before any evictions are done, because we have our ownership claims which have not been seen through and responded to by the NEMA director” Wilberforce Sserwaniko said as he rallied other Lubigi settlers to remain defiant.
In response to the lack of communication, the frustrated residents, supported by Mayor Lukwago, plan to protest outside NEMA offices on September 20, 2024. They are demanding answers and urging NEMA to adhere to the NEMA Act, which they believe mandates the formation of an environment committee to address such situations.
While the residents claim their rights are being violated, NEMA maintains that it is handling the situation. NEMA spokesperson, William Lubuulwa, stated that the agency is reviewing the filed petitions and will provide feedback to the residents. Lubuulwa explained that the process is taking time because each petition needs individual attention due to their unique nature.
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Meanwhile, the police maintain that the blocked meeting was not authorized. Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Oweyesigyire stated that the organizers had not sought the necessary permission to hold the gathering. This incident, coupled with the ongoing evictions, highlights the growing tensions between the affected communities and the authorities in Kampala.
The situation underscores the urgent need for open dialogue and a transparent process to address the concerns of the residents while also ensuring the protection of vital ecosystems like the Lubigi Wetland.
