Kampala — KABAKA Ronald Mutebi has warned residents of Kalangala district against cutting down forests. He noted that development projects had been set up at the expense of protecting the environment.

"Tourists come here to rest, learn and see our treasured environment which includes forests, birds, plants, water and sand that we must protect," the Kabaka told his subjects at Kibanga Primary School while touring Ssese Islands on Sunday.

Kalangala district has one of the biggest natural forests in the country, which attracts several tourists.

"I urge you to set up tourist-oriented projects which will attract more visitors instead of destroying what is in place," Mutebi urged.

The acting Katikkiro, Emmanuel Ssendaula, noted that the rate at which forests were being cut down was alarming.

He warned that in future, the country might face environmental problems because of deforestation.

The Kabaka warned that poor fishing methods would affect fish production in Lake Victoria.

Mutebi pointed out that many youth in the area had abandoned education for fishing because they are interested in making quick-money.

He warned that such behaviours should be stopped because they are anti-development.

"A country without trained and educated people has no future," Mutebi asserted.

Mutebi called for the promotion of the kiganda culture, saying it was one of Buganda's treasures.

He urged the bataka (traditional leaders) to join hands with clan leaders to revive cultural values and norms, especially in Ssese Islands.

Mutebi visited Ssese Farm School, which was established by his father Edward Mutesa.