Securing Karamoja’s Future Through Water Conservation

By Richard Onapatum

The Lokere and Lokok watersheds form the backbone of Karamoja and Teso, supporting agriculture, livestock, and biodiversity. However, these vital ecosystems face mounting threats from deforestation, soil erosion, and erratic rainfall, undermining water retention and exacerbating droughts, food insecurity, and environmental instability.

On May 16, 2025, the Phase Three regional launch of the Lokere Water Catchment Project took place at Caritas Hall in Kotido District, reinforcing efforts to protect and restore these watersheds. Backed by €1.8 million in funding from GIZ and executed by Welthungerhilfe, the initiative will run from 2025 to 2027, aiming to restore degraded ecosystems, enhance water retention, and equip communities with climate-resilient solutions.

A Crisis That Demands Action

The Lokere Catchment, spanning Karamoja and Teso, features an intricate network of seasonal rivers and streams. However, unchecked environmental degradation has escalated surface runoff rates, diminishing water retention capacity and leading to siltation in dams and valley tanks. The consequences—failed crops, depleted pasturelands, and severe droughts—pose an existential threat to local livelihoods and food security.

A Bold Step Toward Conservation

The Lokere Water Catchment Project aims to reverse environmental damage and strengthen climate resilience through:

• Reforestation efforts to curb soil erosion and boost biodiversity.
• Valley tank construction and improved water harvesting for sustained water access.
• Eco-friendly farming techniques that ensure land productivity and conservation.

At the launch event, Kotido Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Lokwi Peter Abrahams, emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable water management. “This initiative is a game-changer for Karamoja. We must protect our water sources to secure livelihoods,” he stated.

Betty Flora Nakiru, chairperson of the Lokere Catchment Management Committee, highlighted the community’s role in conservation efforts. “Local participation is key. We are mobilizing residents to plant trees and adopt sustainable farming practices,” she remarked.

Kotido District LCV Chairperson, Lotee Paul Komol, underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing climate challenges. “Collaboration between NGOs, government, and communities ensures long-term impact,” he noted.

The Assistant Commissioner from the Ministry of Water and Environment reaffirmed the government’s backing for catchment restoration. “We are integrating Lokere’s conservation model into national water policies,” he announced.

The Science Behind Conservation

Experts stressed that reforestation and soil conservation significantly improve water retention, erosion control, and biodiversity restoration.

The initiative promotes indigenous tree planting, enhancing carbon sequestration and soil stability. Meanwhile, valley tanks and water harvesting systems will enable year-round access to water, reducing dependence on unpredictable seasonal rainfall.

Community-Led Solutions

A defining feature of the project is its community-driven approach. Local farmers and pastoralists will receive training in sustainable land management, integrating traditional knowledge with modern science to ensure effectiveness.

Women’s groups and youth organizations will spearhead climate-smart agriculture and water conservation efforts, ensuring solutions remain inclusive and culturally relevant.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite ambitious objectives, challenges persist—deforestation, illegal land use, and climate variability threaten conservation progress. Moreover, policy enforcement and long-term funding are essential for sustained success.

Stakeholders advocate for stronger environmental policies, increased financial support, and heightened community engagement. The success of Phase Three hinges on collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment.

A Vision for the Future

As the Lokere Catchment Project enters its third phase, optimism is high. Armed with scientific research, community participation, and policy backing, the initiative is set to transform Karamoja’s watersheds into thriving ecosystems.

The Kotido launch was more than an event—it was a call to action. With stakeholders rallying together, Karamoja is inching toward water security, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience.