Natural Resources Committee on a field monitoring Visit.

The Natural Resources Committee had an outreach monitoring visit at Gangama forest reserve and Musamya wetlands.

Findings

1. Some farmers were issued 6months work permits to be renewed after 3months.

2. Crops grown are for both commercial and domestic purposes.

3. Some farmers paid money to Mr Galiwango Muhamood hiring the forest reserve.

4. Money collected is used to manage the forest reserve like tree planting and weeding. 

5. Brick laying is done in the forest reserve. 

6. Part of the forest reserve was shared and put mark stones.

7. Some are using the forest reserve at no cost. 

8. Some farmers have work permits to plant trees for 3 years. 

Recommendations :

1. To stop whoever is using the wetland in August 2024 after harvest. 

2. The Committee discouraged the residents from cultivating in the wetlands most especially rice growers and instructed the District forestry officer to convene a meeting in June and sensitise rice growers about the effects. 

3. Payments to Mr Galiwango Muhamood who manages the forest was stopped since this is government property. 

4. The District is ready to take over and conserve the forests.

5. The Environmental officer said Incase farmers want to use the wetlands should come to the District for consultation and guidance on proper use. 

At Musamya wetlands their were wetland wranglers over the leadership of the caretakers.