Since 2019, Nile Breweries and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) have collaborated on an ambitious campaign to restore River Rwizi, a crucial water source and landmark in Mbarara city, Uganda.

The river, which had suffered severe environmental degradation due to human activity, is now on a path to recovery thanks to comprehensive restoration efforts.

THE IMPACT OF HUMAN ACTIVITY ON RIVER RWIZI
River Rwizi’s challenges stemmed largely from human interference, including the clearing of vegetation along its banks and the conversion of buffer zones into farmland.

This left the river vulnerable to soil erosion, run-off, and garbage deposits, resulting in rising water levels, the breakdown of riverbanks, and intermittent flooding. The effects not only threatened the ecosystem but also disrupted the livelihoods of local communities dependent on the river.

RESTORATION EFFORTS AND PROGRESS
WWF’s restoration strategy has focused on tree planting and sustainable land management practices. Indigenous and exotic tree species like bamboo, mahogany, musambya, grevillea robusta, and muvule have been planted to stabilize the riverbanks and mitigate run-off.

Immaculate Kobugabe, WWF’s Rwizi River project manager, explained that these efforts include digging trenches and planting grass strips to reinforce the banks and reduce erosion.

In Kakigaani, Rwampara district, nine water-harvesting tanks with a 10,000-litre capacity each have been installed, providing clean water access to households that previously had to trek up to three kilometers for water. This intervention not only benefits over 1,000 residents but also minimizes human pressure on the river and reduces run-off into its waters.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
To further ease the strain on River Rwizi, WWF and Nile Breweries have introduced a revolving fund to support local communities in adopting alternative livelihood activities. Farmers previously reliant on wetland farming have transitioned to practices such as sheep and goat rearing, beekeeping, and weaving.

These initiatives have significantly reduced encroachment on wetlands, which are critical to the river’s ecosystem.

ADDRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC CHALLENGES
The restoration of River Rwizi has addressed pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges. In 2022, flooding caused by excessive run-off submerged the National Water and Sewerage Corporation pump house in Ruharo, rendering water unusable for both domestic and industrial purposes.

Nile Breweries, which relies on the river for its operations, was similarly affected, forcing the company to source water from alternative and costly suppliers. However, with the restoration efforts in full swing, the river’s water quality and quantity have markedly improved.

Nile Breweries managing director, Adu Rando, emphasized the progress made during the 2024 World Environment Day commemoration.

“We have restored the environment around River Rwizi by planting trees along 27 kilometers. This restoration will lead to significant improvements in water security and quality,” Rando said.

THE ROLE OF TREE PLANTING
Tree planting, particularly the emphasis on bamboo, has proven to be a cornerstone of the restoration strategy. Bamboo’s deep root systems stabilize soil and prevent erosion, ensuring less sediment is deposited into the river. The increased tree coverage, now at
18 hectares, is a testament to the program’s effectiveness.

A BROADER VISION FOR SUSTAINABILITY
River Rwizi spans 13 districts in southwestern Uganda, covering 8,000 square kilometers along its 270-kilometer length. By 2025, WWF and Nile Breweries aim to invest over Shs 2 billion in its restoration.

Their comprehensive approach— combining environmental conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable development—has not only revived the river but also enhanced the quality of life for those who depend on it.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The collaboration between WWF and Nile Breweries demonstrates the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. By restoring River Rwizi, they are safeguarding a vital resource for future generations while setting a precedent for sustainable practices in environmental conservation and community development.