Luxury homes face demolition as NEMA cracks down on Kajjansi wetland encroachment

Kampala | More than 100 high-end residential properties built within the Kajjansi wetland are set for demolition after the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) issued restoration orders to property owners on Monday evening.

The directive requires owners of structures erected in the protected wetland to voluntarily remove them within the stipulated period or face forced demolition at their own cost.

NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasah said the restoration exercise is being undertaken in collaboration with the Department of Wetlands Management under the Ministry of Water and Environment, as well as relevant local government authorities.

“The restoration orders are intended to ensure compliance with environmental laws and facilitate the recovery of degraded wetland ecosystems,” Dr. Barirega said.

The Kajjansi wetland, located along the Kampala-Entebbe corridor, has in recent years come under increasing pressure from rapid urbanization and real estate development.

Several residential estates, commercial buildings, and other structures have been established within areas designated as protected wetlands.

Environmental experts warn that continued encroachment on wetlands threatens biodiversity, increases the risk of flooding, and undermines the natural water filtration functions that wetlands provide.

The latest enforcement action forms part of the government’s broader efforts to restore degraded wetlands across the country and strengthen environmental protection measures amid growing concerns over climate change and environmental degradation.

Authorities have urged affected property owners to comply with the restoration orders to avoid additional penalties and demolition costs.

The number of structures earmarked for demolition is estimated to exceed 100, with many of them described as upscale residential homes developed in the wetland area.

Further details regarding timelines for compliance and enforcement are expected to be communicated by NEMA and partner agencies in the coming days.