INTRODUCTION
Uganda’s natural resource base is one of the richest and most diverse in Africa1
, resulting in the coun-
try’s economy relying heavily on goods and services so provided.2
For example, estimates show that
gross returns to the national economy from bio- diversity alone can be as high as US$ 63.9 billion per year.3
As such environmental resources, if used
properly, can contribute significantly to Uganda’s national economic development.
As part of efforts to ensure effective management of Uganda’s environment and natural resources, several policies and institutions have been put in place. Despite these efforts the country’s natural resources continue to be degraded, and this jeop- ardises both individual livelihoods and the coun- try’s economic development.
People’s livelihoods in Uganda are inextricably linked to sound natural resource management. It is therefore essential that Parliament, in its oversight and legislative role, ensures that natural resource management is at the centre of good governance and economic development.
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