Kabale environmentalists call for shift to agroforestry to combat disasters
Kabale District Natural Resources Officer, Henry Tumwesigye Kamutoro, highlights how eucalyptus trees contribute to flooding and landslides during an assessment tour on March 27, 2025. The tour focused on identifying disaster-prone catchment areas in urgent need of restoration. Photo by Obed Kankiriho.
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Kabale District Natural Resources Officer Mr Henry Tumwesigye Kamutoro emphasized the need for residents to avoid planting non-environmentally friendly trees, such as eucalyptus. He pointed out that eucalyptus trees contribute to increased flooding and landslides in the area
Environmentalists in Kabale District, southwestern Uganda, are advocating for the widespread planting of horticultural and agroforestry trees to combat environmental disasters and restore key catchment areas, such as Kanyakwanzi and Kijurera in Bukoora Parish, Kitumba Sub County.
During an assessment tour on Thursday March 27, 2025 by officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the National Forestry Authority (NFA) ahead of the national World Environment Day celebrations on June 5, Kabale District Natural Resources Officer Mr Henry Tumwesigye Kamutoro emphasized the need for residents to avoid planting non-environmentally friendly trees, such as eucalyptus. He pointed out that eucalyptus trees contribute to increased flooding and landslides in the area.
"The water consumption capacity of eucalyptus trees is too high, and they cannot be intercropped with other crops. They harden the soil, preventing water infiltration, which leads to surface runoff, causing floods and landslides. Residents should embrace the planting of horticultural and agroforestry trees to mitigate these disasters," Mr Tumwesigye stated.
He outlined plans to promote sustainable land management practices, including the construction of check dams and terraces to curb soil erosion.
"If we adopt conservation techniques, we can find a lasting solution to the disasters that have plagued this area. It is heartbreaking that on September 28, 2023, a nursery pupil from Kanyankwanzi Primary School tragically lost their life after being swept away by flash floods," he added.
To enhance community resilience, Mr Tumwesigye announced plans to establish Catchment Conservation Committees at the village level, equipping them with sustainable land management tools for emergency response.
"Trenches play a crucial role in soil and water conservation, reducing the impact of disasters. However, a major challenge is that many people own small plots of land, making it difficult to implement trenching techniques effectively," he explained.
The Kitumba Sub County LC3 Chairman, Mr Davis Muhereza, called for the gazetting of the Kijurera catchment area for environmental protection and sustainable land management.
"Designating this area under national environmental regulations will ensure its protection for sustainable use and conservation. This will guarantee public access while preventing degradation," he noted.
Mr Wilbert Ikilai, NEMA’s Manager for Education and Advocacy, condemned indiscriminate deforestation, which he identified as the leading cause of soil erosion in the region.
"Many hills have been severely degraded due to unchecked tree cutting. When rains come, there are no trees to hold the soil, leading to erosion, deep gullies, and disruptions in water flow. The resulting runoff directly impacts communities, posing a serious threat," he said.
He emphasized the need for regular awareness campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of deforestation.
"We aim to engage communities through awareness initiatives. Additionally, we have found that eucalyptus trees, which are prevalent in the area, negatively affect residents. We urge the community to adopt horticultural and agroforestry trees, which can provide both environmental and economic benefits," Mr Ikilai stressed.
Kabale District Local Government will host this year’s national World Environment Day celebrations on June 5, with President Yoweri Museveni expected to be the chief guest.
With the global theme "United Against Plastic Pollution," the event seeks to inspire action and raise awareness about the urgent need to protect the planet. The theme calls for a collective effort from policymakers, manufacturers, and local communities to address the growing menace of plastic pollution.
Established by the United Nations during the 1972 UN Conference in Stockholm, World Environment Day remains the UN’s premier platform for promoting environmental awareness and action. Observed annually on June 5, in over 150 countries, it serves as an opportunity for nations to reflect on environmental progress and reaffirm their commitment to sustainable resource management.
