By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
National Environmental Management Authority with support from the Environment Protection Force, the EPPU, and the Ministry of Water and Environment, has destroyed a makeshift floating facility that was being constructed on L. Victoria.
According to a statement issued by NEMA today, Wednesday, 14th May, 2025, the operation that was triggered by a whistleblower’s information took place on Tuesday, 13th May, 2025 along Lake Drive Zone, Port Bell Village, Luzira Parish in Nakawa Division.
“The construction raised several environmental concerns. There was poor waste management along Lake shore, where plastic bags, bottles and other forms of solid waste had been irresponsibly discarded posing a serious threat to aquatic life and water quality,” reads part of the statement.
NEMA says the constructors were using sand bricks, timber and other materials directly on the Lake without any regard for environmental safety or regulatory compliance.
Two casual workers found at the site were arrested and are still in detention awaiting prosecution, while the owner, only identified as Joshua is still at large.
Constructing a floating structure on a natural water body without obtaining a prior environmental approval is not only illegal but also undermines the national efforts aimed at conserving the environment and protecting Uganda’s natural resources.
The developer’s actions were a direct violation of Section 36(1) of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, which states: “A person shall not, without the written approval of the Authority, carry out any activity which is likely to have a significant effect on the environment.”
NEMA says that regular surveillance and enforcement operations will continue to ensure that Uganda’s fragile ecosystems, especially wetlands and water bodies are protected from unlawful encroachment and degradation.
