Environment Enforcement And Field Operations
Senior Manager, Department of Environment Enforcement and Field Operations
The department of Environment Enforcement and Field Operations is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to prevent environment crime; environment monitoring, inspections and audits to ensure that developers comply with laws and set environmental standards and conditions and best environment practices.
The department plays a crucial role in safeguarding the environment through a comprehensive approach that includes intelligence-led surveillance, operations, and prosecution-led investigations. This robust strategy ensures effective coordination of environmental protection efforts. Additionally, the department oversees all activities conducted by regional offices and collaborates with other law enforcement agencies in environment management to strengthen enforcement of environmental laws and regulations. Furthermore, the department coordinates all environment audits, monitoring, and inspections, significantly contributing to the achievement of NEMA’s mandate and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources.
Led by Senior Manager Victor Nahabwe, the department comprises a team of 72 staff members. It is structured into three divisions. The divisions include the division of the Environmental Protection Force, the division of Field Operations, and the division of Environmental Inspection, Audits, and Monitoring.
Key Achievements and Milestones
The department of Environment Enforcement and Field Operations has achieved significant milestones in enhancing environmental compliance and enforcement in the fiscal year 2023/24. By strengthening regional offices, the department has oversight and rapid response to environmental issues across the country. The functionality of the Environmental Protection Force has been pivotal in enforcing regulations and conducting operations to safeguard natural resources. During this period, 1,375 sites were inspected across the country, encompassing compliance checks, monitoring, and impromptu inspections. These inspections laid the groundwork for increased submissions of environment audits and informed further enforcement and compliance actions. In support of prosecuting environmental offenders, the department instituted and investigated approximately 278 environmental crime cases across Uganda, demonstrating a robust commitment to environmental justice. The department has also strengthened its investigative processes, ensuring that offenses are thoroughly examined, and offenders are held accountable. These accomplishments underscore the department’s dedication to protecting the environment and upholding the law.
