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Gulu residents cautioned against dumping waste in drainage channel

11 November 2026, 5:01 pm

Rubbish dumped in a drainage channel along John Oniri Road, Gulu City Photo by Walter Kidega

By Walter Kidega

Residents of Layibi Central Ward in Pece-Laroo Division, Gulu City, have been warned against dumping rubbish in drainage channels, following concerns over blocked waterways caused by poor waste disposal.

The warning was issued during a meeting on Friday, November 6, 2026, involving Pece-Laroo Division leaders and local councilors to find a lasting solution to the waste management challenge in the area.

Layibi Central LC1 Chairperson, Oneka Lit Geoffrey, said division leaders led by Mayor Aber Gifter visited the area to discuss how to clear waste blocking drainage channels along John Oniri Road and Mama Cave Road.

Oneka said residents have abandoned designated waste collection points and instead dump rubbish in drainage channels, obstructing the flow of water and increasing the risk of flooding.

Oneka on Waste………..luo

He noted that designated waste collection points are available along Bishop Angelo Negri Road and Engineer James Okema Road, but some residents have refused to use them.

Oneka on Designated points …………….Luo

Meanwhile, Pece-Laroo Division Mayor Aber Gifter said the division had planned to open the drainage channels but could not deploy an excavator because of the large volumes of rubbish blocking the system.

AberGifter said the city council sent a team yesterday on Monday to remove the accumulated waste from Mama Cave Road to John Oniri Road, paving the way for mechanical work.

Aber On Drainage …………..Luo

She warned that residents without dustbins who allow rubbish to accumulate around their premises will be held responsible for collecting and disposing of it.

The mayor explained that the council collects waste from designated collection points and does not provide door-to-door garbage collection services. She also added that an excavator will now be deployed to open up the drainage system, particularly around the bridge along John Oniri road in Tegwana, which connects to Sultan Petrol Station, to improve water flow.

Local leaders say proper waste management is a shared responsibility and have urged residents to stop dumping rubbish in drainage channels to prevent flooding and protect the community’s environment.