The temporary suspension comes amid heightened environmental restoration campaigns targeting wetland encroachment in and around Kampala, which have sparked public debate over conservation efforts and the impact on affected communities.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has temporarily halted ongoing demolition and restoration enforcement activities in Kampala for one month following a request from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
In a letter dated June 5, 2026, addressed to the Lord Mayor of Kampala, NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasah said the decision was made in response to a June 1 request from city leaders seeking time to establish an Environment and Natural Resources Committee that will work with NEMA to strengthen environmental management efforts in the city.
The letter states that restoration operations within Kampala’s boundaries will be paused for one month to allow residents occupying wetlands and other environmentally sensitive areas to vacate voluntarily. The suspension is also intended to provide sufficient time for the formation of the proposed committee.
Despite the temporary halt, NEMA said its teams will remain active on the ground. The authority will continue mapping areas affected by encroachment, issuing Environmental Restoration Orders, and identifying infrastructure constructed illegally within wetlands.
NEMA emphasized that enforcement against re-encroachment of restored wetlands and any new illegal developments will continue throughout the suspension period.
The environmental regulator also called on city leaders to mobilize residents who have settled in protected ecosystems to leave voluntarily, saying the move is necessary to restore degraded environments and advance efforts to make Kampala a greener and more sustainable city.
The temporary suspension comes amid heightened environmental restoration campaigns targeting wetland encroachment in and around Kampala, which have sparked public debate over conservation efforts and the impact on affected communities.
NEMA said it expects cooperation from KCCA and the public during the one-month period as authorities work toward balancing environmental protection with an orderly restoration process.