By KT Reporter
Morungatuny Sub County leaders in Amuria district have raised concerns over the encroachment of wetlands and deforestation.
Joseph Odeng, the LCIll Chairperson of Morungatuny Sub County, said that they are currently experiencing massive destruction of trees, while others have encroached on wetlands for farming rice.
Odeng said that environmental degradation has led to severe consequences, including erratic weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and floods.
Odeng explained that the destruction of the forests and wetlands disrupts the natural ecosystem, and it exposes the communities to climate-related risks. He noted that trees that would act as natural windbreakers, protecting homes and crops from destructive winds, have all been destroyed.
Odeng urged the community members to plant trees, especially along the boundaries of their gardens and within homesteads.
Odeng advocated for sustainable tree management, recommending that every tree cut down at least five should be planted to ensure long-term forest regeneration and resource availability.
Moses Emabu, the LCV Chairperson, condemned the illegal cutting down of trees and wetland encroachment, stating that the practice is exposing them to the negative effects of climate change.
Emabu pointed out that charcoal production and brick making remain a major driver of deforestation in the district. He added that these activities, which heavily depend on wood fuel, are contributing to rapid Forest disappearance.
Emabu urged the residents to make sure that everyone reserves the natural resources not only for themselves but for future generations.
He pleaded that sustainable development must strike a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
Emabu called for urgent exploration of alternative energy sources such as solar systems and biogas gas and also stronger enforcement of environmental protection laws.
He implored the community members, stakeholders, and policymakers to take collective responsibility in reversing environmental degradation and promoting greener, more sustainable practices in the district-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
