Factors Affecting Sustainability of Wetland Agriculture within Lake Victoria Basin in Uganda

In recent years, the high rate of conversion of wetlands for agriculture has raised environmental concerns in Uganda. A study was therefore conducted to identify issues that need to be addressed if communities are to continue deriving livelihoods from wetland agriculture, without causing stress to the wetlands of Lake Victoria basin. This was done by conducting household surveys and focus group discussions in two of the districts that border Lake Victoria. Wetland agriculture was found to be a significant source of livelihoods for resource poor communities, contributing over 60% of the household income. Farming was mainly done at a subsistence level. The study found that socio economic factors, poor farming practices and weak policies were contributing to the rapid conversion of wetlands. Concerted efforts need to be made by government institutions to sensitize communities on conservation of wetlands. Some of the policies need to be harmonized to avoid contradictions. Alternative sources of livelihoods must be created to ensure socio economic benefits and environmental conservation.