The government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment, Albertine Rift Conservation Society with financial and technical assistance from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation is set to host the third World Mountain Forum.
The very first World Mountain Forum was hosted in Switzerland in 2012 while the second one was held in Peru in 2014. This year’s four day forum will take place in Mbale district, Eastern Uganda at Mbale Resort Hotel from October 17 to October 20.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday morning at the Uganda Media Center, Hon. Mary Gorreti Kitutu the Minister of State for Environment said Uganda is happy to host the forum that will be attended by many high level dignitaries from around the world.
“Mountain ecosystems provide goods such as genetic resources, timber, fibre, minerals, medicinal plants and non-timber forest products and ecological services,” she said.
The outcomes are expected to inform the implementation of the sustainable development goals and guide interventions in mountain areas at local, national and international level. Furthermore, the forum will offer an opportunity for mountain countries to discuss how to effectively implement the decisions from climate change negotiations and the post 2015 agenda for sustainable mountain development.
The 1995 Constitution protects mountains, wetlands and the whole eco system. The same constitution requires that for one to settle or carry out activity in a wetland, they must possess a permit. Encroaching on wetlands is illegal.
“Its high Ugandans recognized the beauty of our natural environment and protect it jealously like other countries do. I hope this Ugandans that settle in mountainous areas are high on this forum’s agenda,” said Hon Kitutu.