Restoring life to the River Lhubiriha: How community-led action is safeguarding a vital waterway

Project update

20 Sept

Written By International Tree Foundation

Rivers are the lifeblood of our planet, nurturing ecosystems, supporting wildlife, and sustaining human communities. The River Lhubiriha in western Uganda is a lifeline for countless communities, including the Karambi Group of People with Disabilities.

ITF are helping communities to protect threatened rivers and waterways

The River Lhubiriha flows gracefully from the Rwenzori Mountains, weaving through the landscape before merging with Lake Edward. It serves as a critical source of water for agriculture, drinking, and even hydropower for the region.

Yet, like many rivers worldwide, it faces the pressures of human activity—deforestation, farming close to its banks, and the resulting floods that have tragically claimed lives. This river doesn't just separate Uganda from the Democratic Republic of Congo; it unites communities in their reliance on its waters and the need for its protection.

Restoring the river with local communities

In late 2023, with the support of ITF, the Karambi Group of People with Disabilities launched a bold initiative to restore this precious river. Our collaborative efforts began with establishing community-based bamboo and tree nurseries. The choice of bamboo was deliberate—it’s a hardy plant that grows quickly and strengthens riverbanks, preventing soil erosion.

So far, we’ve planted nearly 10,000 bamboo trees along the River Lhubiriha, covering over 10 kilometers, with another 10,000 ready to be planted this October. The results are already visible; the bamboo has taken root, providing a natural barrier against floods.

ITF's partners are planting bamboo trees, to strengthen riverbanks and protect against floods

But our work doesn't stop there. We've partnered with local households, planting over 20,000 environmentally friendly trees, including fruit varieties that offer both environmental and economic benefits.

Additionally, we've installed 39 water harvesting tanks and restored four community boreholes, ensuring that even in times of erratic rainfall, people, especially those with disabilities, have access to clean water. This holistic approach addresses the river's health and the well-being of the community.

The transformation we’re witnessing around the River Lhubiriha is nothing short of inspiring. It’s not just about planting trees; it’s about planting hope, resilience, and a future where rivers continue to be the lifeblood of our world. This project underscores the power of community-led initiatives and how, with the right support, vulnerable communities can lead the way in environmental stewardship.

Celebrating our rivers

As we mark World Rivers Day, let's celebrate the waterways that give life to our planet and acknowledge the incredible work being done to protect them. ITF is honored to stand alongside communities like the Karambi Group of People with Disabilities, demonstrating that when we come together for the environment, we create ripples of change that extend far beyond the riverbanks.