Effects of Wetland Degradation on Community Livelihoods: A Case of Mabengere Wetland in Kisiita Sub County, Kakumiro District, Uganda

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Wetlands in Uganda play vital ecological, economic, socio-cultural, scientific and recreational purposes and yet they are currently threatened by anthropogenic and bio geophysical factors. The current study was initiated to determine the drivers of wetland degradation; and to assess the benefits and costs as a result of wetland degradation, to members of the local community in Kakumiro district, Uganda. A cross sectional research design that involved the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data from three hundred and eighty-seven respondents was used. Data were collected using a questionnaire, Key informant interview guide from the key informants and observation check list. Key findings revealed that sand and clay mining, agricultural activities, gathering building materials were the key activities carried out, which significantly affected the wetlands at P<0.05. In addition, the activities carried out in the wetlands significantly improved the livelihoods of the people living around them at P<0.05. The water levels in the wetlands were reduced that led to shortage of portable water and the water for watering animals, and also led to outbreak of fires which contributed to a reduction in the wetland’s biodiversity. This was confirmed by the Chi-square test which revealed that degradation of wetlands contributed to the costs incurred by members of the local community at P<0.05. It was therefore recommended that alternative sources of energy and building materials be availed like planting of upland trees. Also, there should be awareness intensification to members of the local community about the values and uses of wetlands aimed at scaling down their degradation.