National Policy for the Conservation and Management of Wetland Resources, 1995

This Policy sets the following goals; to establish the principles by which wetland resources can be optimally used now and in the future; to end practices which reduce wetland productivity; to maintain the biological diversity of natural or semi-natural wetlands; to maintain wetland functions and values; and to integrate wetland concerns into the planning and decision making of other sectors. The principles guiding the pursuit of these goals are that wetland resources form an integral part of the environment and their management must be pursued in the context of an interaction between conservation and the national development strategies and activities, wetland conservation can only be achieved through a coordinated and cooperative approach involving all the concerned people and organisations in the country including the local communities and it is of vital importance for wetland conservation and management that the present attitudes and perceptions of Ugandans regarding wetlands be changed. The goals are to be achieved through thirty six policy statements, aimed at ensuring no drainage occurs unless more important environment management requirements supersede; that only non-destructive uses are carried out in and around wetlands; that wetland developments are subject to environmental impact assessment and audit; and maintaining an optimum diversity of uses and users and consideration for other stakeholders when using a wetland. Among the resource problems identified by the Policy, it specifically tries to handle the issues of water loss, reduced runoff control, soil deterioration, crop pest risks, health problems, etc. The policy also provides for the sustainable use of wetlands and provides two strategies to this effect; wetlands may be utilized in such a way that they do not lose traditional benefits presently obtained from them and any decision to use wetlands must consider the requirements of all other users in the community. Strategies are also provided for the environmentally sound management, conservation, water supply and effluent treatment, tenure and use, recovery, environmental impact assessment, research and inventory, developing public awareness, etc. of wetlands.