Alebtong to seize farm equipment and animals discovered in wetlands

Jimmy Okello, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Alebtong, and other local leaders have issued a strong warning to those destroying wetlands.

Okello issued the warning while speaking with local farmers in Okomo parish, where they had gone to resolve land disputes among community members.

He stated that the majority of wetlands in the Alebtong district have been encroached upon for human activities such as rice farming and building houses, among others.

He cited sub-counties such as Adwir, Apala, Awei, Amugu, and Omoro as the most affected.

The ARDC Okello reported cases of land conflicts between communities that are encroaching on the wetland despite not having the authority to own it.

Okello stated that no one should encroach on wetlands unless they have been granted a government certificate to do so, such as to build fishponds.

Padi Francis Ogwang Abwang, LC3 chairperson of Adwir sub-county, stated that Alebtong has a “flat tableland” with almost all areas under water.

According to Abwang, some farmers are always arguing over the flat tableland, and some stubborn people have extended up to the wetland, which is not permitted.

“This move aims to protect the environment and preserve the ecological functions of wetlands,” ARDC said about the warnings.

The authorities’ warning is likely to reduce agricultural encroachment, which can lead to:

Soil erosion: Wetlands help keep soil in place, and when they are destroyed, soil is washed away, causing erosion.

Waterlogging: Wetlands help regulate water flows, and destroying them can cause waterlogging, which can harm crops and infrastructure.

Wetlands are home to unique and diverse species that can be threatened or displaced if their habitats are destroyed.

In his final message to the communities, ARDC Okello warned that any animals and farming equipment discovered in wetlands would be impounded.

They see this as an effort to discourage farmers from encroaching on these fragile ecosystems and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

By Regina Lalam Olal.