They argue that the uncontrolled levels of pollution have deterred several fish species from multiplying because their breeding areas are contaminated with unspecified amounts of acidic waste from factories. The fishermen pinned Nile Agro and Skyfirt Leather Industries for establishing an extension of 50 meters into Lake Victoria.
Joseph Mugenyi, the NWSC Masaka regional branch, says the wetland is heavily polluted with all sorts of waste including baby pampers, sanitary pads, human wastes and polythen bags among others. He says workers from NWSC have to remove the waste from the water each day.
Plastic carrier bags are still in circulation despite a government ban on their importation and usage more than two months ago. A Uganda Radio Network reporter visited several places in and around Kampala where the kaveera was widely in use in supermarkets and retail shops.
A 110 million shillings project for the construction of a modern car washing bay meant to lessen pollution in Arua has stalled for the last five years. The project, initially funded by National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), was meant to prevent encroachment on River Enyau and protect marine life.