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KCCA trains media on waste management and public health solutions

30 October 2024, 11:30 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

As part of their ongoing efforts to promote sanitation in the city, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) held an orientation training for members of the media to equip them with solutions to various issues related to waste management in the city and the across the country. This training was facilitated by KCCA’s Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Zalwango Sarah, Mr. James Bond Kunobere, Ms. Pearl Kobusingye, and Ms. Ngange Kyambadde. They urged journalists to use their platforms to educate the public about the dangers of improper waste management.

According to Mr. James Bond Kunobere, effective waste management is crucial and can be achieved if the public is continuously sensitisation. “We have two types of wastes: solid waste and liquid waste. Both can be managed. When you finish eating, make sure that you dispose of waste in a bin or designated dumping site, not just anywhere.” he said. He also expressed concern about people accepting multiple polythene bags at supermarkets, even when many products are already well-sealed and packed. He called this practice unnecessary and encouraged people to change their habits.

Dr. Sarah Zalwango emphasised that educating the public about the dangers of wastes mismanagement is essential to maintaining a clean and healthy city. “Report any unhygienic practices and cases in your community and in the city, because we must keep Kampala clean. People should stop releasing sewerage into the environment during rainfall, and anyone caught doing so will be prosecuted. Let’s work together to create a healthier environment.” she stated.

She also urged residents of all city divisions to refrain from dumping garbage into the drainage channels, as this practice contributes to blockages. Concerning Mpox disease, Dr. Zalwango advised residents to remain vigilant and adhere to the preventive measures set by the Ministry of Health. “Avoid close contact with individuals confirmed to have Mpox or those showing symptoms. Do not touch personal items such as beddings, eating utensils, clothes, phones or other belongings of infected persons. Avoid contact with animals known to carry the virus, like monkeys or rodents and steer clear of those who appear sick or have died. Refrain from eating wild animals like squirrels, rats, mice and monkeys.” she explained.

According to the Ministry of Health, over 80 people have been confirmed to have Mpox. However, the ministry is making every effort to eliminate the disease. Ms. Pearl Kobusingye appealed to journalists not to point fingers but to join KCCA in combating waste mismanagement in the city.

Daniel Nuwabine, the spokesperson for KCCA, thanked journalists for attending the orientation and urged them to use the knowledge effectively. Journalists who attended the training expressed gratitude to KCCA for the initiative and pledged to fulfill their duties effectively. The training was held at the KCCA headquarters in Kampala.

KCCA Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Zalwango Sarah talking to journalists during the training.
One of the drainage channels in Lubaga division, Kampala.
KCCA spokesperson Mr. Daniel Nuwabwine speaking to journalists at the training.