Sustainable use of wetlands ecosystem in Mukono District

This project will be carried out in two wetlands located in the Mukono district of Eastern Uganda on the fringes of the Mabira forest reserve (an Important Bird Area). These forest wetlands are rich in biodiversity, such as raphia palm vegetation, rattan cane and a variety of animals and birds, like antelopes, bushbucks and the crested crane. Over-exploitation of rattan cane, felling of raphia palms, conversion and clearing of papyrus vegetation for cultivation of sugarcanes, associated drainage and diversion of water streams is causing an intense pressure on the wetlands. There is inadequate understanding by the communities of the wider benefits these wetlands have to offer them. In most cases it is exploitation for economic gains that surpass sustainability objectives. The project aims at ensuring optimal utilisation of the wetland resources for their sustainability while providing continued benefits for the immediate and distant communities, now and in future. The project will educate the direct local resource users, wetland beneficiaries and local leaders on values, national policy and legal framework and sound management of wetland resources. It will further initiate and pursue a participatory planning process, with the aim of developing a community-based management plan for the wetland areas. In all phases of the project close co-operation between Centre for Integrated Development (CIDev), local communities, the Wetland Inspection Division, local NGOs and district and sub-county structures will be sought. With the forthcoming Ramsar conference in Uganda, CIDev plans to advance the position that management planning can be an effective tool in ensuring sustainable and wise-use of wetlands * xxxx * xxxx * xxxx

Participatory community wetland management plans for Lwajjali and Wakisu including enforcements, reward and penalties, were developed. These plans were endorsed by local authorities and the relevant central government Minister of Uganda. Approximately 150 community members including two local NGOs and two local service servant technicians were trained in wetland management. A Video tape on wetland management was produced and broadcasted on Ugandan national TV during the Ramsar conference COP9 in Kampala. Income generating alternatives were promoted including livestock rearing, growing of fruit trees and vegetables. 10 households were trained in improved pig rearing; 16 in goat rearing and 14 in breeding of improved exotic cocks with local hens. All these families were provided with starter flocks. 18 households are engaged in intensive vegetable growing.