NEMA Reports 40% Protected Area Coverage as Biodiversity Strategy Exceeds 2030 Goal
World Business Journal talks to Akankwasa Barirega, Executive Director at the National Environment Management Authority, about efforts being made to protect wetlands as key biodiversity assets, measures taken to address noise pollution, and the state of forest conservation in the country.
What notable successes and hurdles define the journey of Uganda’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan II?
Protected area coverage in Uganda has increased to 40%, surpassing the 30% target set for 2030, making Uganda the first in Africa and 19th globally to submit an aligned NBSA. All wetlands, which cover 13% of the area, have been gazetted, with 9.3% still intact. Measures have been implemented to protect wetlands as key biodiversity assets, and restoration of degraded wetlands has started nationwide.
Wildlife conservation efforts are making progress, with elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and rhino populations experiencing growth. Mountain gorilla numbers are currently estimated at 450. However, many big cat and bird species still face significant challenges. Conservation strategies remain crucial, including initiatives around Lake Victoria, where addressing illegal fishing is helping to restore fish populations and enhance biodiversity.
We stopped issuing new permits for wetland activities, preserving existing industrial areas and banning future factories in wetlands, except for public projects.
While policies like the National Environment and Wildlife Laws are improving, challenges persist, such as limited resources, information gaps, and coordination issues among government departments. Local governments also struggle with the capacity for monitoring environmental changes.
What is the air quality in Kampala, and what efforts are being made to address noise pollution?
The air quality averages 15 micrograms per cubic meter of PM2.5, which is within the WHO’s transitional target but above the ultimate goal of 5 micrograms. The air quality is better in green areas like Kololo, and residents can use tools like the AirQo app to monitor it.
Efforts to address noise pollution include enforcing the use of noise meters in large venues and tackling issues such as inadequate personnel and equipment. Actions involve equipment confiscation and fines, with plans to form a dedicated enforcement team to improve compliance.
How is deforestation being addressed?
Forest cover has been increased from 9% in 2015 to 13.2% today, aiming for 15% by 2040. A key initiative, Roots (“Running Out Of Trees”), aims to plant 200M trees by 2026, with at least 40M trees planted annually.
A national carbon market is planned to require industries unable to reduce emissions to buy carbon credits from tree planters. Regulations are in progress, with implementation expected within 2 years.
