KAMPALA– Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga, the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, on behalf of the government of Uganda has committed to support all individuals and organizations aiming at promoting Environmental conservation.
“We call upon everyone to support us (Government ) in our efforts of conserving the environment. Many people have encroached on the natural resources thus contributing to the land slides, Mud slides and famine in their areas of settlements.” Remarked Nakadama while officiating international Human Rights Day celebrations at Golf Course Hotel Kampala on Tuesday.
She also noted that although Government has relocated many of the people in the affected communities to other areas, the public should know that it’s not the government’s role, but it’s every one’s responsibility to ensure that the environment is kept intact.
“Government agencies like NEMA, NFA and others have tried to ensure that environment is conserved, but still they need to do more sensitization among the masses so that they can be in position understand why they have to vacate some natural resources.”
Justice Mariam Wangadya, the Chairperson of Uganda Human Rights Commission , pointed out that although a lot has been done by various stakeholders to promote environmental conservation, there is still a lot that has to be done in ensuring that environmental rights are enjoyed in a sustainable manner.
“We welcome the recommendations that have been presented here and pledge our continued commitment in ensuring equity in enjoyment of all rights. I thank our partners for the support, let’s continue with our commitment to Human Rights in Uganda.”
Samuel Kiberu Nsubuga , the Chief Executive officer African Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV) , revealed that they have embarked on the role of ensuring that all people who have been traumatized by several disasters like land slides, floods receive the required support.
“I Convey condolences to those who have gone through several environmental disasters, we continue to advocate for the passing of legal Aid Bill into law and Witness Protection Bill into law because it will help us in improving citizens’ access to justice.”
The event which attracted civil society key actors, human rights defenders, academia and representatives from security agencies was held under a theme: Reducing Inequalities in the enforcement of environmental rights & the mitigation of the impact of environmental degradation in Uganda.
