Ugandans urged to embrace waste separation to protect environment and health

28 March 2026, 11:03 am

By Edwin Okurmu Kisa

All Ugandans, especially those living in urban areas, have been urged to separate biodegradable waste from non-biodegradable waste as a way of protecting the environment and combating diseases caused by environmental degradation.

This appeal was made by the Kampala District Health and Environment Officer, Dr Sarah Zalwango, during a training session for journalists on how to educate the public about proper environmental management practices to help reduce harmful emissions that pollute the atmosphere. She emphasized the important role of the media in raising awareness among citizens.

Dr Zalwango noted that Ugandans should begin learning how to sort waste, such as separating organic waste, paper, glass, plastics, and similar materials. She added that this will also make it easier for recyclers to collect and reuse these materials to produce other useful items.

She also urged Ugandans to reduce the use of polythene bags, noting that they are among the leading pollutants affecting the environment across the country. She encouraged the public to use reusable bags when shopping, which will help reduce plastic waste that does not decompose and can lead to various health problems.

In the same training, Dr Alex Ndakakiira from KCCA called on Ugandans to reduce harmful emissions from cooking by improving their cooking methods. He advised reducing excessive use of firewood, adopting environmentally friendly stoves, and improving cooking spaces, as smoke from poor cooking methods can cause a number of diseases.

He further urged motorists to consider using vehicles that do not rely on fuel, noting that many people develop illnesses due to exposure to emissions from fuel-powered transport, which release harmful gases that damage the environment.

During the training, journalists were equipped with knowledge and skills on environmental conservation. They were also guided on how harmful emissions are produced and encouraged to take a leading role in educating the public about the dangers of environmental pollution and how to prevent it.