Local Government interventions and wetland management in Otuke District: A Case of Adwari Wetlands Strech

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of local Government intervention on wetland management in Otuko District. The study looked at the effect of bylaws on wetland management; enforcement on wetlands management and partnership on wetland management in Otuke district. Methods: Primary data was collected from the respondents using a 5-Likert type scale questionnaire, interview guide and documentary review guide. Demographics data was analysed by descriptive statistics while the effect of local government interventions was analysed using regression model. Thematic and content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Findings: According to the findings, use of by-laws, enforcement and partnership all exhibited a positive significant relationship with wetland management. The result of the regression revealed that by-law, enforcement and partnership all significantly affect wetland management. Conclusion: The study concluded that enacting of ordinance by the district council help it the protection, conservation and restoration of wetland. The study also concluded that carrying out enforcement with the help of enforcement officer and police officers help to manage wetland. Finaly, the study concluded that partnering with CSO, NGO and cultural institution help in the management of wetland. Recommendations: The study therefore recommended that management of Otuke district local government and other local governments in Uganda should come out with by-laws and ordinances on wetland. The study also recommended that the local community should be sensitized on the importance of wetland protection and conservation. Finally, the study reconsented that enforcement officers and police officers in-charge environment should be empowered so as to enhance their capacity to enforce the by-laws, regulations, and policies on wetland. Key words: Local Government, interventions, wetland and Management