Otafiire Sends Strong Warning to Wetland Encroachers, Officials Who Shield Them: “Leave Now”

Minister of Water and Environment Gen. Kahinda Otafiire has declared an end to government amnesty for wetland encroachers, warning that authorities will launch a tougher crackdown on those illegally occupying and degrading protected wetlands across the country.

Speaking in Kampala over the weekend, Otafiire said there would be “no mercy” for individuals found destroying wetlands, adding that the enforcement campaign would also target public officials who facilitate illegal activities in protected ecosystems.

The minister said the era of warnings and leniency is over, stressing that anyone occupying wetlands unlawfully must vacate immediately or face legal action.

“I am going after those who are damaging the environment and those who allow them to damage the environment. Amnesty ends today,” Otafiire said.

He argued that wetlands are critical for environmental protection, water conservation, and public health, and warned that continued encroachment poses serious risks to communities and future generations.

Otafiire’s remarks signal a major shift in the government’s approach to wetland conservation, with authorities expected to intensify enforcement operations against both encroachers and officials accused of enabling environmental destruction.

The minister’s message was clear: the grace period has ended, and those illegally occupying wetlands should expect tougher action from the state.