Title: An institutional analysis of the management of Wetland resources: A comparative study of Flóahreppur Municipality in south Iceland and Oyam District in Uganda

Wetlands occur at all latitudes, from the polar areas to the tropics, and cover about 6% of the earth‘s surface. Wetlands perform a number of ecosystem services, some of which are well recognised, others less so, and are internationally recognised as being one of the most important ecosystems for the conservation of biodiversity. Wetlands also have important primary functions in the regulation of hydrology, water purification and flood control, and coastal wetlands can help to alleviate the impacts of storm surges. Further, wetlands have aesthetic values and significant eco-tourism potential. This study examined the adequacy of the policy, legal and regulatory framework for sustainable utilization and management of wetlands in Uganda and Iceland. The analyses of stakeholders involved in the utilization and management of wetlands in the Oyam District and Flóahreppur Municipality were accomplished using the “stakeholder analysis” tool. The analyses clarified the returns, roles, responsibilities and relationships of the various stakeholders, with regard to sustainable utilization and management of wetlands. Wetlands utilization and management issues in the Oyam District were compared with those of Flóahreppur Municipality. The challenges of sustainable wetlands utilization and management in the Oyam District were discussed, with relevant recommendations. The policy and legal framework for sustainable utilization and management of wetlands in Uganda is adequate. However, there is need for more regulations to make the laws more effective. The institutional framework is also sufficient, but there is a need to build more capacity and for stronger collaboration among allied sectors. Iceland on the other hand, has a weak policy, legal and regulatory framework for sustainable utilization and management of wetlands. There is need for a comprehensive policy and a legal and regulatory framework. Institutions for wetlands management should also be established at the local government and “wetland users’” level. The challenge of sustainable utilization of wetlands is linked to the private ownership of wetland areas in the Flóahreppur Municipality. The Municipality did make commendable progress in protecting wetlands of local importance through apt land use planning.