Effects of Wetland Policy on Conservation and Household Incomes in Kabale District, Uganda

Abstract

Abstract. This study aimed at establishing why wetland degradation persists in Uganda despite
Ramsar and other wetland policy interventions. The objectives were to assess local peoples’ attitudes
towards wetlands; assess the level of illegal activities in wetlands; and assess the contribution of
wetland management programs and projects to household incomes. We used a cross-sectional mixed
methods design and targeted 120 respondents, including residents and opinion leaders in Kabale
District. The study showed that fifty three percent of the respondents perceived wetlands favourably.
Fifty seven percent of the respondents reported illegal activities of burning followed by hunting at
20%. Twenty two percent did not get any monetary income from wetlands while 43 percent reported
getting between shillings 10,000-100,000 annually. Only 12 percent reported getting above 1 million
shillings. Illegal activities persisted because of land shortage and being desperate due to lack of other
alternatives. In Kabale District, only Nyamuriro wetland project, covering Ikumba and Muko sub
counties, implemented wetland restoration. We concluded that the wetland policy has had little
impact on household incomes and illegal activities in wetlands. We recommended continuous
sensitisation.