By Alfred Opio
BUKEDI — Rice growers across the Bukedi sub-region have been urged to abandon wetland encroachment and adopt fish farming as a more sustainable and profitable livelihood.
The call was made by State House Controller Jane Barikye during her visit to Limoto and Kaitambili fish farming sites, where she assessed ongoing aquaculture projects.
Barikye warned that continued rice cultivation in wetlands is degrading the environment and threatening the long-term economic stability of communities that rely on these ecosystems. She emphasized that wetlands play a crucial role in climate regulation, flood control, and biodiversity conservation.
“Rice growing in wetlands is not sustainable,” she said. “It requires a lot of labor and time but yields low returns. Fish farming is more profitable and less demanding once established, and it can transform household incomes within a short time.”
During the visit, Barikye interacted with farmers who have already transitioned to fish farming, many of whom reported improved incomes and better living conditions. She encouraged more farmers to embrace aquaculture, noting that government support is available for those willing to shift.
She also stressed that environmental conservation must go hand in hand with economic activities, warning that destruction of wetlands could disrupt rainfall patterns and worsen the effects of climate change.
Barikye commended Pallisa Resident District Commissioner Majid Dhikusooka for mobilizing communities and overseeing fish farming projects, saying strong local leadership is key to successful implementation of government programs.
In his remarks, Dhikusooka reaffirmed government commitment to promoting fish farming in the region, noting that the initiative aligns with efforts to improve household incomes and ensure sustainable use of natural resources.
“We are working closely with farmers by providing training, fingerlings, and technical support. Fish farming is a viable alternative that can lift many families out of poverty,” he said.
He added that sensitization campaigns are ongoing to educate communities on the dangers of wetland encroachment, and that enforcement measures may be strengthened to protect these critical ecosystems.
Although rice farming has long been a common practice in Bukedi wetlands, experts warn that it contributes to soil degradation, reduced water quality, and loss of natural habitats.
With growing success stories from aquaculture projects, authorities believe Bukedi has the potential to become a leading fish farming hub in Uganda.
Leaders say the path forward is clear: protecting wetlands while embracing fish farming offers a sustainable solution for both environmental conservation and economic growth in the region.
