The Freshwater Resources and Ecosystems Research Group (FRE-RG) conducts interdisciplinary research that addresses urgent freshwater and environmental challenges in Uganda’s tropical highland systems. Our work responds to the growing pressures of land-use change, pollution, climate variability, and ecosystem degradation, which continue to threaten water security, biodiversity, and community livelihoods.
We adopt an integrated research approach, combining hydrology, aquatic ecology, and climate science to generate evidence-based, policy-relevant, and community-driven solutions. Our research themes are designed to move beyond fragmented studies and instead provide a holistic understanding of freshwater systems and their interactions with human and environmental processes.
Catchment Hydrology and Water Resources Assessment
Understanding Water Systems from Source to Use
This theme focuses on analysing how water moves through catchments and how natural and human factors influence water availability, distribution and quality. Tropical highland catchments are increasingly affected by intense rainfall events, soil erosion, groundwater depletion and land-use change, all of which disrupt hydrological processes and increase vulnerability to floods and droughts.
Key Areas of Research
- Hydrological modelling and water balance analysis
- Surface water–groundwater interactions
- Flood and drought risk assessment
- Soil erosion and sediment transport dynamics
- Water resource monitoring using field and satellite data
We combine field-based hydrometric measurements, remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and tracer studies to generate accurate and spatially relevant data. Community-based monitoring is also integrated to enhance local ownership and long-term data collection.
This research supports sustainable water resource planning, disaster risk reduction, and improved catchment management, ensuring that freshwater resources are available and resilient under changing environmental conditions.
Aquatic Ecosystems in Tropical Landscapes
Protecting Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health
Freshwater ecosystems such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, and floodplains are critical for biodiversity and human livelihoods. However, they are increasingly threatened by nutrient pollution, sedimentation, invasive species, and habitat degradation driven by agricultural expansion and land-use change.
Key Areas of Research
- Freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem health assessment
- Water quality monitoring and pollution analysis
- Biological indicators, including macroinvertebrates, fish, and aquatic plants
- Nutrient dynamics and eutrophication processes
- Monitoring and management of invasive species
We use integrated ecological assessment methods, including trait-based bioassessment, which links organism characteristics to environmental conditions. This approach provides deeper insight into ecosystem functioning, especially in regions where taxonomic expertise is limited. Remote sensing is also applied to monitor ecosystem changes and invasive species dynamics.
Our work informs ecosystem conservation, restoration and water quality management strategies, contributing to the protection of biodiversity and the sustainability of ecosystem services that support communities.
Climate Variability, Change and Adaptation
Building Resilient Water and Ecosystem Systems
Climate variability and long-term climate change are significantly affecting hydrological cycles, water availability, and ecosystem stability. This theme focuses on developing adaptation strategies that enhance resilience for both ecosystems and communities.
Key Areas of Research
- Climate impacts on water resources and hydrological processes
- Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) strategies
- Climate-smart agriculture and sustainable land use
- Rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge
- Community-based flood and drought early warning systems
We integrate climate data analysis, modelling, and participatory research approaches to co-develop solutions with communities and stakeholders. Nature-based solutions are prioritised to ensure sustainability and multiple co-benefits, including biodiversity conservation and livelihood support.
This research strengthens climate resilience, water security, and adaptive capacity, supporting communities and policymakers in responding effectively to climate risks.
FRE-RG’s research themes are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. By linking hydrological processes, ecosystem health, and climate dynamics, the group provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and managing freshwater systems.
This integrated approach enables the development of practical, scalable, and locally relevant solutions that address both environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Through its research, FRE-RG contributes to national and global priorities, including:
- SDG 2 – Zero Hunger
- SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
- SDG 15 – Life on Land
By advancing scientific knowledge, strengthening capacity and promoting collaboration, FRE-RG plays a critical role in supporting sustainable freshwater management and climate-resilient development in Uganda and the wider region.
