The River That Unites Us
Dedicated to protecting and restoring the lifeline of south-western Uganda. We are residents who drink from, farm with, and love this river.
Dedicated to protecting and restoring the lifeline of south-western Uganda. We are residents who drink from, farm with, and love this river.
River Rwizi is the main source of water for millions of people across 12+ districts. It rises from the Buhweju hills, winding through Sheema, Bushenyi, Ntungamo, Rwampara, Mbarara, Isingiro, Kiruhura, Lyantonde, Rakai, Lwengo, and Kyotera.
Its catchment spans over 8,200 km², supporting households, farms, livestock, wildlife, and industry. For centuries, Rwizi has shaped life in this region.
The river and its wetlands act as natural reservoirs, slowly releasing water to sustain people and biodiversity across the Ankole sub-region.
Despite its importance, River Rwizi is under severe threat. Over the last 40 years, water levels and quality have declined due to human activities.
Banana plantations and crops planted up to the riverbanks, destroying natural buffer zones.
Intensive extraction in Rwampara and Sheema districts, degrading the riverbed and feeder wetlands.
Uses large volumes of water and destroys swamps that feed the river.
In Buhweju, the river's source, mining disturbs the entire catchment.
Mbarara City's growth brings construction near banks and increasing plastic waste.
Key wetlands like Nyakafumura and Mushasha have been drained or damaged.
Restoring the Lifeline
Restoring degraded riverbanks and wetlands by planting indigenous trees and vetiver grass.
Running school programs and community dialogues on sustainable land use and buffer zones.
Organising monthly clean-ups and training youth as 'River Guardians' to track pollution.
Saving River Rwizi means securing water for hospitals, schools, and homes in Mbarara City. It means protecting farmers in Sheema, herders in Kiruhura, and fishing communities near Lake Victoria.
This is not just an environmental issue: it is a health, economic, and heritage issue for all of south-western Uganda.
Call Us
+256 781 013 376
Email Us
riverrwizicharity@gmail.com
Visit Us
Biharwe, Mbarara City North
