The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has started restoring part of the Lake Victoria lakeshore protection zone at Ddungu Resort Beach in Mulungu, Makindye Division, Kampala, after taking action against illegal developments carried out in the protected area.The restoration exercise, which began on Friday, July 17, 2026, follows the expiry of an Environmental Restoration Order issued to the developer after investigations found that structures had been constructed within the protected lakeshore zone without the required environmental approvals.
According to NEMA, an inspection revealed that the developer had built a perimeter wall extending about 100 metres into Lake Victoria, alongside developing a beach waterfront area. The authority said the activities had contributed to the degradation of the lakeshore and violated environmental protection regulations.In April 2026, NEMA issued an Environmental Restoration Order under Section 130(1) of the National Environment Act, Cap. 181, directing the developer to stop the illegal activities, remove the structures, restore the affected area, and vacate the protected zone within the given compliance period.However, NEMA said the developer failed to fully comply with the order before the deadline, forcing the authority to intervene and begin enforcement action to restore the damaged lakeshore.The authority explained that lakeshore protection zones play a critical role in protecting water quality, controlling soil erosion, reducing flooding risks, conserving biodiversity, and maintaining the ecological balance of Lake Victoria.
NEMA has warned developers and property owners against carrying out activities in protected areas such as wetlands, riverbanks, and lakeshores without obtaining the necessary environmental approvals. The authority said such actions threaten natural ecosystems and put communities at risk.The environmental regulator reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental laws while promoting sustainable development. NEMA said the restoration of degraded areas is necessary to protect natural resources and ensure that future generations continue benefiting from Uganda’s environment.
