Gov’t, TotalEnergies partner to restore Albertine wetlands

The two on Tuesday signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work toward conserving and restoring wetlands and riparian vegetation within the Tilenga Project area, situated in the biodiverse Albertine Rift Region.

The Albertine Rift Region is renowned for its rich biodiversity and the vital role wetland ecosystems play in maintaining the local and regional environment. Wetlands are home to diverse flora and fauna species and are instrumental in moderating climate, purifying water, and preserving water tables.

Mrs. Mariam Nampeera Mbowa, Deputy General Manager of TotalEnergies EP Uganda, emphasized the company's commitment to the Tilenga Project's ecological goals. She stated, "Conserving the rich biodiversity of the Albertine Region is an integral part of the Tilenga Project, and we are committed to achieving positive outcomes for biodiversity and host communities. The wetlands of the River Nile and Lake Albert are of great ecological importance for fish, birds, and other wildlife and are also essential for maintaining water balance and quality. This initiative will focus on working in partnership with the Ministry of Water and Environment and host communities to help restore degraded wetland areas, improve freshwater quality, and promote the principles of wise use."

The MoU outlines the collaborative efforts between TEPU and MWE, including the development of wetland management plans, community engagement, wetland user education and awareness, demarcation and restoration, and water quality monitoring. The Tilenga Biodiversity program has set ambitious targets, with the restoration of 500 hectares of degraded wetlands along Lake Albert being a key focus, in addition to improving freshwater quality.

Mr. Alfred Okot Okidi, Permanent Secretary of MWE, highlighted the rapid recovery potential of wetlands when restoration is undertaken effectively. He noted, "Wetland restoration results can be achieved in under 12 months compared to forest restoration. Communities are part of the solution primarily to solve the problem and also in ensuring restoration efforts are sustained." He also emphasized the need for sustainable development, stating, "Development must occur but in a sustainable manner, and at some point, we may need to undertake a tradeoff which will be a delicate balance to achieve. This is primarily to ensure that the interests of policy makers, communities, and developers are aligned and also achieved."

TotalEnergies EP Uganda is currently implementing the Tilenga project in the Albertine Rift Valley, one of Africa's most significant areas for biodiversity. The company is collaborating with various institutions, conservation organizations, and communities to implement the Tilenga Biodiversity Program, which includes conserving forests, rangelands, and wetlands, reducing human pressures on protected areas, and providing environmental education to communities.

This initiative forms part of a larger global plan, focusing on reducing human pressure, protecting the integrity, and enhancing the connectivity of savanna habitats, ultimately contributing to the conservation and restoration of this ecologically vital region.