Ecosystem adaptation to climate change: a case of Mabamba bay wetland Wakiso district

Abstract

Wetlands are now widely depended on by people for their resources in developing countries like Uganda, but face unregulated destruction of which is not compatible with SDG goal 13 and 15. However, comprehensive studies about wetland destruction ecological effects are limited. This study therefore, sought to archive four objectives; (1) To determine the prevailing eco-system management strategies to climate change adaptation. (2) Assess the major human activities conducted in and around Mabamba bay wetland in Wakiso District. (3) To assess community perception to climate change and its impacts on livelihoods. 2012 and 2022. (4) To assess how wetland resources are being used for climate change adaptation in and around Mabamba bay wetland. Cloud free land sat images downloaded from USGS were pre-processed. The images were then subjected to supervised classification of six classes (water, swamps, dense vegetation, sparse vegetation, tobacco, built-up and open surfaces) using ArcMap V10.7.1 as to come up with details on land use cover changes and extent. Data on wetlands. A total of 30 households were sampled for the study to obtain the past changes in tree species due to human activities and climate change. Key informant interviews were also conducted targeting local elders and focal person within Zziba sub county. The results show that the area under wetland cover in 2012 increased in 2022. This represents an increase by 1.47%. wetland cover. However, the study also revealed that there are some measures arising to regulate wetland destruction and utilization. It is recommended that there is need for water and food substitution by stake holders more especially the surrounding community to reduce over dependence on wetland resources and encourage more sustainable utilization programs with in Zziba Sub County.