KATERERA, RUBIRIZI – Rubirizi District Local Government in partnership with Tigikya Pearl Adventures has trained residents of Katerera Sub-county on environmental conservation and tourism promotion during a community sensitization meeting held today at Nyabushabi Trading Centre.
The awareness campaign focused on proper waste management, wetland protection, and keeping tourism sites clean to preserve the beauty of Rubirizi and boost local incomes.
Rubirizi Resident District Commissioner Mr. Ahamedi Kinene said the district has launched training to help communities protect the environment and promote tourism. He warned that anyone dumping plastic bottles and other waste in lakes, rivers, and swamps will be arrested and prosecuted.
“Security agencies and local leaders have started operations to arrest those littering in our communities. People must treat tourism and culture as important sources of income. Embrace dustbins for garbage collection to keep the environment protected,” Mr. Kinene said.
Mr. Katusiime Maricel, CEO of Crater Pearl Adventures and a private lecturer who initiated the sensitization, said the exercise involves security agencies and local leaders to enforce clean-up activities across all natural resources. He emphasized the need to keep lakes and rivers clean by discouraging littering, especially around water bodies.
According to Mr. Mwizukye Michael, the District Internal Security Officer, dumping plastics in Lake Bugwaji has reduced fish stocks and caused diseases. He urged residents to take responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations.
Key messages from the meeting:
1. Enforce clean-up exercises to showcase Rubirizi’s beauty and protect natural resources
2. Promote proper waste disposal, wetland protection, and clean tourism sites
3. Arrest and prosecute individuals caught polluting lakes, rivers, and swamps
4. Encourage use of dustbins and regular community clean-up days
5. Involve security agencies and local leaders to enforce environmental laws
Local leaders led by Akampurira Pascal, LC3 Chairperson Katerera Sub-county, and resident Ester Kekyimuri thanked the district for protecting the environment. They pledged to organize community clean-up days and protect Rubirizi’s lakes, rivers, and national park resources.
“Tourists will only come to Rubirizi if they find clean lakes, clean towns, and a healthy environment. A dirty environment kills tourism,” Mr. Pascal said.
The meeting concluded with a commitment by residents and leaders to protect Rubirizi’s environment and use eco-tourism as a driver for economic growth.
_This story is compiled by Hon. Tugume Muzafaru, Senior News Reporter, Rubirizi. Call 0702269259 for media coverage._
