Uganda's natural resource base is one of the richest and most diverse in Africa, resulting in the country's economy relying heavily on goods and services so provided. 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 jeopardises both individual livelihoods and the country's economic development. 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.

This publication addresses the urgency of controlling pollution and preserving water quality around the world. The past few decades have focused on the importance of water quantity in meeting basic human and ecosystem needs for water. Water quality is as important as water quantity for satisfying human and environmental needs, and yet has received far less investment, scientific support, and public attention. An overview of water-quality challenges details the contaminants and human activities that affect water quality. Water quality impacts human health, water quantity, livelihood, and economic activity, and climate change. Emerging contaminants, population growth and urbanization also present additional stresses to water quality.