Lake Shores & River Bank Protection

Case study: Lake Bunyonyi, the clear source of River Ruhezamyenda
Case study: sediment-choked River Ruhezamyenda in Kisoro

Same River Different Colours

In mountainous and hilly landscapes, rivers often begin at their source clean and clear. But as they flow downstream, unprotected hillsides release soil and runoff into the water, turning clear rivers dark with sediment and pollution.

Planting clumping bamboo on hillslopes, gullies and approved river buffers is a powerful solution. Its dense root system stabilises soil, slows runoff and traps sediment before it reaches the river.

Protect the hillsides.
Keep rivers clear.
Plant bamboo.

A clear river flowing through green vegetation
A brown, sediment-laden river below eroded hillsides

Awareness Must Lead to Action

Protecting wetlands begins with communities who understand the value of the ecosystems beside them.

Through targeted awareness creation, mindset change and practical training, wetland-adjacent households can shift from harmful practices towards responsible land and water stewardship.

Bamboo seedlings provide a direct pathway from commitment to action. When planted on approved upland slopes, drainage lines and outer wetland buffers, clumping bamboo helps reduce soil runoff, sedimentation, pollution and contamination before they reach vital water systems.

Inform communities.
Provide seedlings.
Change behaviour.
Protect wetlands.

A community awareness meeting under a shelter on the lake shore
Two men with a dugout canoe on a lake shore