The waste management crisis in the country has reached alarming levels, drawing attention to the dire situation in Mukono Municipality, where residents are increasingly living in a stinking environment due to failed garbage management.
As Ugandans continue to grapple with the aftermath of the recent disaster at Kiteezi, where many lives were lost under a collapsing garbage heap, residents of Bajjo village in Ntaawo ward are facing their own urgent crisis.
They are increasingly concerned about illegal dumping in a nearby wetland, which has been ongoing for over a year.
This illegal dumping poses a serious threat to the community, with foul odors permeating the air and attracting swarms of flies.
The waste not only creates a health hazard but also invites scavenging birds that dirty rooftops, making it nearly impossible for residents to collect rainwater.
With the official landfill overflowing and unable to handle the garbage, residents are left to contend with the hazardous consequences of unchecked waste disposal in their environment.
Residents are worried about strong odors from burnt garbage, including toxic materials and medical waste, which they fear could harm their health.
Last week, a local team stopped a lorry, registered as UAK 629J, from illegally dumping waste and took it to Mukono Police Station, but the Municipal Environment Officer, Robert Masengere, is trying to reclaim it.
Dr. Muganga Andrew, owner of the Megasport Recreation Centre nearby, says his business has suffered due to the flies and foul smell, causing customers to stay away.
Despite efforts to get help from local authorities, he feels ignored and fears a disease outbreak. Chef Joyce Nakyejwe often has to serve food only to see customers leave because of the stench.
Resident Abubaker Musiko noted that after writing to the Town Clerk and NEMA without a response, they are now considering legal action against the municipal authorities for allowing illegal dumping in their neighborhood, threatening everyone’s health.
LC I Defence Secretary for Bajjo, Godfrey Mayombwe, reported that garbage has blocked the Njogezi stream, causing its water to flow into residential areas.
He expressed frustration that while NEMA quickly removes crops from wetlands, they ignore illegal garbage dumping.Mayombwe warned that if NEMA attempts to relocate residents affected by the dumping, it could lead to significant protests.
Town Clerk Francis Byabagambi denied receiving any complaints from Bajjo residents and stated that Mukono is the only approved dumping site for KCCA.
He urged locals to report illegal dumping to the police and offered to testify against offenders.
Mukono Municipality Environment Officer George Masengere claimed he was unaware of the dumping site and stressed that it is illegal.
He distanced himself from the impounded truck, which he said belonged to a group collecting plastics, not dumping.Juma Kategaya, Treasurer for the Katikkolo Workers and Sorters Association, confirmed they have an agreement with the municipal council to collect only plastics and are working to have their truck released from police custody.
Residents, including James Okello, Patrick Okello, and Lovinsa Kyayonka, reported an increase in disease linked to poor hygiene in their area.END
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