Uganda, May 6 -- For generations, Uganda's cultural identity across its diverse cultural institutions has been closely intertwined with nature.

Forests, wetlands, rivers, and wildlife have not only sustained livelihoods but have also helped shape and preserve cultural heritage, beliefs, and traditional practices.

However, in the Greater Masaka region, this delicate relationship is now under serious threat as Mujuzi Forest Reserve and Nabajjuzi Wetland face escalating encroachment that conservationists and cultural leaders warn could erase both biodiversity and cultural memory.

The once-thriving ecosystems at Mujuzi and Nabajjuzi-long associated with clan totems, sacred trees, and indigenous knowledge systems-are rapidly disappearing un...