LUZIRA-The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Richard Buteera, has called for urgent action to address the environmental challenges facing Uganda. He made this call on Monday while opening the Uganda Water and Environment week (UWEWK) at the Ministry of Water and Environment Headquarters in Luzira, Kampala, where he was representing the Chief Justice, Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny – Dollo.
The week-long activity is being held under the theme; *”Rethinking collective action and innovative solutions to Water, Environment and climate change crisis in Uganda”.*
Justice Buteera highlighted the critical importance of sustainable water management and environmental conservation and emphasized the constitutional mandate to protect and preserve the environment. He also underscored the legal obligation of the state to promote a good water management system and sustainable development practices.
Expressing concern over the degradation of natural resources such as forests and wetlands, the DCJ urged stakeholders to prioritize restoration efforts and strengthen enforcement of environmental laws.
“All persons have a right to access clean air, water and uncontaminated food. Proper management of water resources and the environment are key to the realization and enjoyment of the right to a clean and healthy environment,” he said.
Justice Buteera reassured participants of the support of the Judiciary in ensuring that the enforcement of water and environmental laws and regulations is achieved. He also informed them of ongoing discussions for the establishment of an environmental court, demonstrating the commitment to enhance legal mechanisms for environmental protection.
He emphasized the need for collective action and innovative solutions to combat climate change. The DCJ called for the integration of climate change considerations into all sectors of government and emphasized the pivotal role of water and environmental resources in socio-economic transformation and human survival.
He called upon citizens to join hands in addressing climate change and supporting initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods through sustainable development.
In his remarks, Minister for Water and Environment, Hon. Sam Cheptoris emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable water and environmental management, recognizing their crucial role in achieving development targets and addressing climate change.
He highlighted water’s role in sustainable processes, emphasizing its direct impact on the quality of life and productivity of the population.
Hon. Cheptoris also outlined the Ministry’s objectives, including reducing environmental degradation in response to climate change. He highlighted the Ministry’s achievements such as substantial restoration of forest cover to 13.4% and improvements in access to safe water, with rural areas at 67% and urban areas at 73%.
UWEWK serves as a platform for sector actors and stakeholders under the Ministry of Water and Environment to engage in knowledge exchange and dialogue on crucial water and environmental resource issues in Uganda.
The event was attended by different stakeholders including Development Partners, officials from all the three arms of Government.
