Mabamba Bay
Wetland in Uganda
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mabamba Bay is a wetland on the edge of Lake Victoria, northwest of the Entebbe peninsula in a village called Kasanje.[2][3] It covers an area of 2424 ha and is a home to over 300 bird species.[4] Mabamba Swamp is famous for lungfish which is known as mamba in native language(Luganda).[5]
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| Mabamba Bay | |
|---|---|
| |
  Mabamba Bay Location within Uganda | |
| Coordinates | 0°5′N 32°20′E |
| Basin countries | Uganda |
Surface area | 16,500 hectares (64 mi2) |
Surface elevation | 1,130 metres (3,710 ft) |
Official name | Mabamba Bay Wetland System |
| Designated | 15 September 2006 |
| Reference no. | 1638[1] |
Conservation
Mabamba is one of Uganda's 33 Important Bird Areas and since 2006 a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance.[6] Key protected bird species in Mabamba are the shoebill, the blue swallow and the papyrus gonolek.[7]
Biodiversity
In addition to over 300 bird species, Mabamba Bay provides habitat for fish such as tilapia and lungfish, reptiles like monitor lizards, and small mammals. Its ecosystem services also include water purification and flood control for surrounding communities.
While the shoebill is the star attraction, Mabamba’s true magic lies in its astonishing diversity. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded here, including African pygmy geese, papyrus gonoleks, malachite kingfishers, blue-breasted bee-eaters, and swamp flycatchers.
Awards
Mabamba swamp was internationally recognized by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands the status of a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ since it contains globally threatened species in 2006.[8]
Uganda's Iconic Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Wetland
Wetlands after heavy rain
View of Mabamba bay from nearby hill
