PM Nabbanja warns Hoima dwellers on poor garbage management

Prime Minister of Uganda Robinah Nabbanja has cautioned Hoima City communities against the mishandling and mismanagement of garbage, saying it contributes to health risks. 

Nabbanja was speaking during the third edition of the national cleaning exercise hosted in Hoima City on September 26, an exercise which attracted thousands of participants who cleaned the Central Business District (CBD) areas.

She noted that a report from the Ministry of Health indicates that 75 per cent of the disease burden in the country is manageable without seeking medication.

According to her, living in a clean environment is one of the medicines for overcoming the challenge, warning communities against misuse of garbage by dumping it within living areas.

“75 per cent of the disease burden we have in the country can be managed by communities without going to the health facilities. Let’s learn how to manage our garbage by putting it in the right bins,” she emphasised.

The Prime Minister said Hoima City is one of the most important economic areas in the country. “And it’s why we are more interested in making sure it is very well organised.”

Meanwhile, she said that the cleaning exercise is also aimed at promoting mindset change among communities by promoting sanitation and environmental conservation as the country looks forward to hosting AFCON 2027, a tournament which will also be hosted at Hoima City Stadium.

Also read: Lira City observes mandatory national cleaning day

David Lwanga, the Hoima City Clerk, noted that the city has been so bothered by waste, which he said was promoted by poor hygiene.

Different strategies, including the introduction of polluter pay systems to overcome the challenge, are underway, Lwanga said.

He also disclosed that the city has contracted Eco-Serve company to take charge of garbage collection.

Isingoma Edward, the Mayor of Hoima City Council, appreciated the government for considering Hoima City among the key cities to host the nationwide cleaning exercise.

Next month, October 31, the exercise will be hosted in Lira City.