The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has rejected claims that it has failed to remove a developer accused of encroaching on the shores of Lake Victoria at Ddungu Beach in Munyonyo, insisting that the matter is currently before the courts.
The response follows a Weekend Vision story headlined “NEMA FAILS TO EVICT TYCOON,” which questioned why the agency had not enforced an Environment Restoration Order despite the expiry of several deadlines and extensions.
In a statement shared on its official X account, NEMA said it had already issued an Environment Restoration Order against the developer, whose perimeter wall allegedly extends into Lake Victoria. However, the authority explained that the order was appealed, triggering a legal process that temporarily limits enforcement action.
“Our attention has been drawn to a Weekend Vision article alleging that NEMA has failed to evict a tycoon from Lake Nalubale. This is to clarify that the Environment Restoration Order that was issued to the said developer was appealed, and the law requires that action can only be taken upon disposal of the appeal,” NEMA stated.
The environmental watchdog said the appeal is currently undergoing due process and that the public will be informed once a final decision is reached.
NEMA further dismissed suggestions that it had neglected its responsibilities, stressing that the affected parties have been subjected to legal procedures for more than a year since receiving the restoration orders.
“It is therefore not true that NEMA has failed,” the agency added.
The dispute centers on efforts to restore and protect Lake Victoria’s shoreline from illegal developments, a challenge that has increasingly drawn public attention amid growing concerns over environmental degradation around the lake.
