The Freshwater Resources and Ecosystems Research Group (FRE-RG) is a multidisciplinary research group based at Kabale University, Uganda, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge, training, and community-driven solutions for sustainable freshwater management. The group focuses on understanding and addressing the complex interactions between water resources, ecosystems, and climate variability, particularly within Uganda’s tropical highland environments.
Uganda’s freshwater systems, including lakes, rivers, wetlands, and aquifers, are essential for water security, food production, energy generation, biodiversity conservation, and climate regulation. However, these systems are increasingly threatened by land-use change, population pressure, pollution, and climate change, resulting in declining water quality, ecosystem degradation, and reduced resilience of communities.
FRE-RG was established to address a critical gap in integrated freshwater science by bringing together expertise in hydrology, aquatic ecology, and climate adaptation. The group conducts research that not only generates high-quality scientific evidence but also translates findings into practical solutions for policy, environmental management, and community resilience.
Our Mission:
To promote science, training, and community partnerships that protect Uganda’s lakes, rivers, wetlands, and aquifers through integrated research in hydrology, ecology, and climate adaptation.
Our Vision:
To become a leading centre for tropical freshwater science and innovation, advancing sustainable water management and climate resilience across Uganda and the wider region.
What We Do
FRE-RG undertakes research, training, and outreach activities that address pressing freshwater and environmental challenges. Our work focuses on:
- Generating scientific evidence to support water resource management and policy decisions
- Conducting field-based research and environmental monitoring across catchments and freshwater systems
- Developing innovative and practical solutions for climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration
- Training students and early-career scientists in modern research methods and tools
- Engaging communities and stakeholders to co-develop locally relevant and sustainable solutions
Our work is organised around three core themes:
- Catchment Hydrology and Water Resources Assessment:
We study water flow dynamics, groundwater systems, flood risks, and erosion processes using field monitoring, modelling, and geospatial analysis. - Aquatic Ecosystems in Tropical Landscapes:
We assess freshwater biodiversity, ecosystem health, and pollution impacts using biological indicators and innovative monitoring approaches. - Climate Variability, Change and Adaptation:
We develop and evaluate climate-resilient, nature-based, and community-driven solutions to improve water security and ecosystem sustainability.
FRE-RG adopts an integrated and collaborative approach that combines:
- Scientific research and data analysis
- Participatory methods involving local communities
- Interdisciplinary collaboration across institutions
- Capacity building and knowledge transfer
This approach ensures that our work is scientifically rigorous, socially relevant and practically applicable.
FRE-RG works closely with national and international partners, including universities, government agencies, NGOs, and community organisations. Through initiatives such as KI-WATER, SFR2CC, MaziWa, and Ishasha LIL, the group contributes to capacity building, joint research and knowledge exchange.
Key collaborations with institutions such as BOKU University (Austria), Mountains of the Moon University (Uganda) and development partners including APPEAR and OeAD, strengthen the group’s ability to deliver impactful and globally connected research.
A central pillar of FRE-RG’s work is the development of human capacity in freshwater science. The group:
- Supports postgraduate training and research supervision
- Conducts hands-on field training and short courses
- Promotes gender-inclusive and community-responsive research
- Provides opportunities for student exchange and international collaboration
Through its research and partnerships, FRE-RG contributes to:
- Improved water resource management and policy development
- Enhanced climate resilience and environmental sustainability
- Strengthened scientific capacity and higher education quality
- Increased community awareness and participation in environmental stewardship
The group’s work aligns with Uganda’s national development priorities and contributes to global goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2, SDG 6, SDG 13 and SDG 15.
FRE-RG is committed to advancing scientific excellence, innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in freshwater research. By integrating knowledge, people, and practice, the group continues to play a vital role in securing the future of freshwater resources for Uganda and the region.
