Manafwa  district stood in the national spotlight on May 22 2025 as it hosted this year’s World Biodiversity Day celebrations under the theme “Harmony with Nature for Sustainable Development”. The vibrant event brought together environmental experts, farmers, district leaders, youth, and conservation advocates to champion the integration of biodiversity conservation with sustainable agriculture.

Observed annually on May 22, World Biodiversity Day raises global awareness about the essential role of biological diversity in supporting healthy ecosystems, food security, and climate resilience. Famous for its rich biodiversity and fertile landscapes, the celebration highlighted Manafwa’s growing role as a leader in Uganda’s efforts to align environmental protection with climate-smart farming practices.

While addressing attendees, Dr Barirega Akankwasah, Executive Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), praised the district for taking meaningful steps toward sustainable development.

“I applaud Manafwa’s leadership for prioritizing conservation and adopting climate-smart agricultural practices,” Dr Akankwasah said. “We must promote agriculture and aquaculture not just for today, but for generations to come.”

He also emphasized the crucial role of pollinators in supporting food systems.

“Bees are not just for the honey we collect, they are essential to pollination. Without them, agricultural productivity simply cannot be sustained. Their conservation and multiplication must be a national priority.”

Echoing this call to action, environmental activist Leila Akello Gonasa urged stronger engagement from both policymakers and citizens.

“Let us reaffirm our commitment to living in harmony with nature,” she said. “Sustainable development is not optional it is essential. We must place ecological balance at the heart of our policies, practices, and daily lives.”

Manafwa’s commitment to environmental stewardship was evident in the showcase of recent local initiatives, including community-led tree planting campaigns, the promotion of agroforestry, and training programs on climate-resilient farming methods. Local farmers shared firsthand how these efforts are bearing fruit.

“By embracing sustainable farming, we have seen our soils improve and crop yields increase,” said farmer John Mwesigwa. “It is a win for both our families and the environment.”

Youth groups and local NGOs also played an active role in the celebration, engaging the public through exhibitions and performances aimed at spreading awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.

The event highlighted Uganda’s broader commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity and advancing the goals of Vision 2040 marking a deliberate balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.

As the day concluded, participants pledged to deepen their efforts to protect biodiversity, recognizing that safeguarding nature is not only about protecting ecosystems but also about securing the future of communities that depend on them.