Authorities in Kampala have intensified efforts to eliminate the open burning of waste, announcing firm legal action against offenders across Uganda. The sweeping directive targets individuals, institutions, and urban authorities who continue to dispose of garbage by setting it ablaze, a practice blamed for escalating pollution and public health risks.
The order was issued by the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) after sustained public outcry and nationwide environmental inspections confirmed that the harmful practice remains widespread. Officials say monitoring operations revealed persistent violations in multiple municipalities despite clear environmental laws already in place.
Naomi N. Karekaho, the agency’s Head of Corporate Communications, described open waste burning as a serious threat to both human health and ecosystems. She emphasized that the activity contravenes Section 78 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, and warned that continued non-compliance will attract prosecution, substantial fines, and other tough enforcement measures.
Acting under its legal mandate provided by Section 10 of the same law, NEMA has instructed all responsible authorities to immediately end open burning within their areas of jurisdiction. The agency made it clear that enforcement will not be symbolic, but backed by active compliance checks and legal consequences.Urban administrations and local governments have been reminded that effective waste management falls squarely within their core responsibilities.
NEMA indicated it will conduct routine inspections to assess adherence to the directive and ensure that proper waste handling systems are implemented and maintained.In addition, local authorities have been directed to step up public awareness campaigns. Staff, waste handlers, and communities must be sensitized on safe disposal practices and sustainable waste management alternatives to prevent further environmental degradation.
Despite earlier reminders issued in August 2024 regarding statutory environmental obligations under Uganda’s devolved governance framework, progress has remained limited. Open burning continues to be reported in several towns, reflecting ongoing structural and logistical challenges in waste collection and disposal.The practice is particularly common in municipalities such as Luwero, Wobulenzi, and Bombo, where medical and household waste are frequently incinerated in open spaces.
Some residents attribute the problem to delayed garbage collection, but regulators insist that the law must be enforced. Whether the renewed crackdown will bring lasting change now depends on strict follow-through and collective responsibility.
