Impact of Human Activities on Wetlands in Kampala: Critical Reconciliation of Ecological Sustainability and Human Development

Abstract

Wetland ecosystem services are central to a nation’s sustained growth and development. For this reason, human development ought to be undertaken while maintaining the ecological character of wetlands if meaningful sustainable development is to be achieved. However, in Kampala, we are witnessing unwise use of wetland resources, ranging from pouring of untreated wastes (sewerage and industrial effluent) and reclamation (for settlement and industrial construction). This article examines the impact of these activities on the wetlands in the city. Within the framework of deep ecology and systems thinking, the article maintains that reconciliation of human development and ecological sustainability is vital to the wellbeing of both the humans and wetland ecosystems.