In Mukono Municipality, a quiet transformation is underway to reshape the city’s incredible identity.
The authorities are preparing to launch a bold new initiative aimed at revitalising the town’s appearance and enhancing its appeal.
With plans to improve urban aesthetics, encourage investment, and create a sense of community pride, Mukono is on the cusp of becoming a cleaner, smarter, and more attractive destination.
The town’s makeover, however, is not just about aesthetics, but also a carefully crafted move to ensure that every corner of Mukono reflects orderliness, sustainability, and a shared vision for a better, more livable future.
This initiative comes as local authorities recognise the critical role urban aesthetics and environmental quality play in creating vibrant, livable cities that can attract investment, tourism, and boost community pride.
In a statement released on December 4, the Senior Physical Planner’s office announced the introduction of a mandatory orderliness policy.
The aim is to enhance the municipality’s appearance while promoting environmental sustainability and encouraging public participation in the planning process.
Christopher Mutumba Kayongo, Enforcement Officer at the Physical Planning Department, confirmed that the new policy is legally binding under the Physical Planning Committee Act of 2020, which mandates improvements to the town’s visual appeal.
Mutumba expressed concern over the actions of utility companies, such as water and electricity providers, that have been cutting down trees planted for beautification without replacing them.
He also noted that workers assigned from Kampala often leave behind large trenches or damage the environment during their work in Mukono.
“The town should be attractive from Namanve onwards, and even in our homes, we should plant fruit trees that provide both shade and food,” Mutumba said.
Meanwhile, Town Clerk Francis Byabagambi reminded property owners of their responsibility to manage waste.
He warned that those without agents to handle garbage disposal would be held accountable for any waste found on the streets.
“No more licensing of premises without toilets or the painting of dilapidated buildings, and landlords must ensure proper garbage management, along with paving their areas,” Byabagambi said.
He added that traders conducting business in the middle of roads and on top of drainage pipes must relocate, noting that the grace period for compliance ends in December 2024.
Deputy Speaker of the Mukono Municipal Council, Rogers Bazannya, emphasised that the initiative is not intended to target anyone unfairly but to enhance the town’s appearance.
He pointed out that a clean, well-maintained city attracts investors and customers.
This development follows a directive from the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, which revealed that Parliament has passed a law aimed at promoting orderliness in Ugandan environments.
A press briefing on the matter highlighted the provisions of the Physical Planning Amendment Act No. 2 of 2020, which now classifies littering as an offense.
“Every person in Uganda is now under obligation to refrain from littering or dropping rubbish outside litter bins,” the statement read.
The law further specifies that offenders will face fines of up to UGX2 million or imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
It also mandates that every premise must have a litter bin or garbage bin. Failure to comply will result in a fine of up to UGX2 million or imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both.
Individuals found throwing items from vehicle windows, leaving food peelings on the streets, or vendors dumping sugarcane leaves or pineapple peelings in public spaces will be fined under the new law.
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