Overview the organization
NRDI stands for Natural Resources Defence Initiatives. It is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Uganda. Operates as a community conservation–based model.
Location
It’s Headquartered in Butebe, Fort Portal Tourism city. (Western Uganda).
Active primarily in river catchment areas in western Uganda notably the Mpanga and Semliki River basins.
Mandate, Vision & Focus Areas
NRDI’s mission centers on environmental protection, natural resource management, and sustainable development. Key thematic areas include:
- Ecosystem Restoration
Tree planting / reforestation: NRDI supports nursery operations, grows seedlings, and helps replant tree species, especially indigenous ones.
Restoration of riparian zones (riverbanks) to reduce erosion and stabilize slopes. - Water Resources Management
Works to protect wetlands, restore degraded wetlands, and demarcate wetland boundaries.
Promotes agroforestry to reduce agricultural pressure on water bodies.
Creates and supports water-user committees in farming communities so that communities take responsibility for managing water resources. - Sanitation / Green Infrastructure
Constructs “ecosans” toilets (ecological sanitation) — toilets that minimize environmental harm and help reduce water contamination.
Promotes infrastructure design that helps reduce pollution and better manage human waste, particularly in rural and wetland communities. - Livelihood Development & Skills Building
Skills training for youth: NRDI runs programs to equip young people with “green job” competencies e.g., making biodegradable bags, managing tree nurseries, designing compounds, producing animal feeds, etc.
Alternative income generation: Through its environmental projects, NRDI helps communities identify sustainable livelihood pathways (beekeeping, eco-tourism, value-adding to forest products, etc.). - Policy Engagement & Advocacy
NRDI works with local government, national bodies, and community structures to push for better resource governance.
Participates in policy dialogues around wetland protection, water catchment management, and community-based natural resource management.
Key Projects & Activities - River Nyamwamba Restoration
NRDI launched Phase II of a restoration project for the Nyamwamba River catchment (in Kasese District).
Activities include planting trees along riverbanks, training community groups in soil and water conservation, and establishing demonstration gardens.
They also support farmers in value chain activities (e.g., coffee, beekeeping), plus eco-tourism and energy-saving stoves. - Wetland Demarcation in Fort Portal / Rwenzori Region
NRDI is working with the Ministry of Water and Environment and Fort Portal City to demarcate and restore wetlands.
The demarcation exercise is controversial: some residents accuse the initiative of poor consultation and potential land grabs.
As part of restoration, they plant indigenous trees and carry out sensitization / community engagement. - Tree Planting in Military / Institutional Settings
In June 2025, NRDI planted more than 1,000 trees at the Muhoti Barracks (UPDF Mountain Division) in Fort Portal.
This is part of a broader push to involve institutions (including security forces) in environmental conservation. - Irrigation for Climate Resilience Project (ICRP)
NRDI is a partner in the Irrigation for Climate Resilience Project, funded by the World Bank.
Their role: promote afforestation, soil and water conservation, and develop alternative income-generating activities for local farmers. - Greening Uganda Schools
NRDI encourages planting of indigenous trees in schools to build climate awareness, combat erosion, and foster environmental stewardship among students.