Water Ministry Launches Fresh Campaign to Restore Degraded River Rwizi Catchment

What the report says

The Ministry of Water and Environment has launched a renewed effort to restore the River Rwizi catchment in southwestern Uganda, according to Nile Post. The river serves communities in districts including Sheema, Mbarara, Isingiro and Kiruhura, but has been under pressure from pollution, wetland and riverbank encroachment, sand mining, poor waste disposal and drought. The ministry said these problems have contributed to siltation and falling water levels, increasing concern about the river’s future role in supporting households, livestock and local economic activity.

Officials said previous restoration work in parts of Buhweju and Sheema has not been enough, with degradation still severe in areas such as Mbarara. Stephen Emor, who leads the Victoria Water Management Zone at the ministry, said the recovery effort needs cooperation from government, communities and other stakeholders. Mbarara City Resident City Commissioner Catherine Kamwiine also called on residents to take part in protecting the river and cleaning waste along its banks.

As part of the campaign, the ministry has launched the 2026 River Rwizi Run, scheduled for September 5, to raise resources and public support. Nile Post reported that the event is expected to draw more than 4,500 participants, with proceeds intended for restoration work in Buhweju, solid waste management in Mbarara City and livelihood support for people living near buffer zones.

The broader plan also includes enforcing environmental bylaws, regulating artisanal mining, training farmers and miners in cleaner practices, and installing trash racks and nets to catch waste before it reaches the river. The campaign comes as government continues to weigh longer-term water supply options, including a proposed project to bring water from River Kagera.