Summary:

• Masindi wetland encroachers ordered to leave within three days due to recent floods; relief aid provided by Kinyara Sugar Ltd.

Encroachers on Masindi District wetlands must evacuate the area within three days, as ordered by the District Police Commander, SP Jacob Chepsikor. The directive comes in response to recent floods in Kimengo sub-county, causing damage to homes, roads, farms, and gardens. The affected individuals, left without food and shelter, received relief aid from Kinyara Sugar Ltd.

During the distribution event, SP Chepsikor blamed the victims for the disaster, citing their degradation of wetlands through cultivation and settlement in catchment areas. He warned that failure to vacate the wetlands by the specified deadline would result in police intervention, in line with the presidential directive against wetland encroachment.

SP Chepsikor also instructed casual laborers along the Kafu River to leave, emphasizing their unlawful presence. Masindi District Environment Officer William Musimire explained the distinct vegetation of wetlands and warned against encroachment, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Noah’s Ark.

At the relief distribution, Kinyara Sugar Ltd’s General Manager, Mr. Ravis Ramalingam, expressed empathy for the affected community and provided assistance, including maize flour, beans, sugar, and seeds. The company has supported approximately 1,500 affected individuals in Kimengo with relief items, amounting to Shs50m.

The November 2023 flood impacted hundreds of people in Kimengo, Myeba, Kayera, and Nyakarongo villages.

Written by Moses Andama Editing by Busiinge Aggrey