NEMA Director Commits to Support Elderly Lady Who Was Arrested For Building House on Wetland

The Executive Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Barirega Akankwasah, has pledged to support Namuddu, an elderly woman whose house was recently demolished for being built on a wetland.In a statement shared on X, Akankwasah revealed that he had met with Namuddu’s daughter to understand her situation better.He assured the family of his commitment to helping Namuddu secure a home outside the wetland.“This afternoon, I met Namuddu’s daughter, who explained to me the situation of Jajja Namuddu. I will work with her family to support her efforts to get a home out of the wetland,” Akankwasah said.The NEMA Director also expressed gratitude to activist Agather Atuhaire and cartoonist Spire Jim, who have been vocal advocates for Namuddu’s case.Their efforts have brought significant public attention to the challenges faced by individuals affected by wetland conservation enforcement.Akankwasah reiterated the importance of protecting wetlands, emphasizing their role in environmental sustainability and human survival.“We must save wetlands for our own survival,” he stated.The demolition of Namuddu’s home sparked widespread debate about balancing environmental conservation with social justice, particularly for vulnerable populations.Namuddu was also arrested and put in jail following the demolition of her house. She was released on Thursday on bail.