Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has warned that air pollution in the city is worsening, calling for urgent collective effort from government, institutions, and the public to protect public health and improve air quality.
Speaking during a multi-sector policy dialogue on air quality management held on April 30 at the Mayor’s Parlor, KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki said the situation is being driven by rapid urban growth and human activities.
“With the growing population, the air quality challenge is becoming more serious, but we are taking deliberate steps to address it,” Buzeki said.
She pointed to key sources of pollution including traffic emissions, open burning of waste, and the use of biomass fuels such as charcoal and firewood.
Data presented at the meeting showed that Kampala’s average PM2.5 levels stand at 50.4 micrograms per cubic metre, with the worst pollution recorded during peak traffic hours in the morning and evening.
KCCA outlined ongoing interventions to address the problem, including the installation of more than 100 air quality monitors across the city to support data-driven decisions.
The authority also highlighted improvements in road infrastructure, with 22 functioning signalised junctions aimed at easing congestion and reducing vehicle emissions.
Efforts are also underway to expand pedestrian and cycling paths, alongside tree planting campaigns to improve the urban environment.
On waste management, KCCA is promoting the four Rs—reduce, reuse, recycle and refuse—to curb pollution caused by burning garbage.
Dr. Sarah Zalwango, Director of Public Health and Environment at KCCA, stressed shared responsibility in tackling the crisis.
“We all have a role to play in improving air quality. This requires action from individuals, institutions and government,” she said.
Officials also noted collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport to reduce vehicle emissions, and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development to promote cleaner cooking solutions.
KCCA’s Air Quality Management Ordinance and the Clean Air Action Plan (2025–2030) are expected to guide long-term efforts.
Experts from AirQo and Makerere University said air monitoring is critical in guiding responses, while stakeholders called for greener infrastructure and stronger traffic management.
