There is Hope for a Plastic Free Uganda

Uganda Biodiversity Fund (UBF) in collaboration with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) joined forces on Friday, in an effort to clean up the Kiwatule slums and raise awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution.

The collaboration aims to sensitize people about the impact of plastic pollution and encourage them to find ways to eliminate it.

Mr Ivan Amaanigaruhanga, the Executive Director of UBF, expressed hope as numerous organizations and individuals are taking action to combat plastic pollution. He emphasized the global attention that the issue of plastics has garnered and highlighted the current theme of the global event, which focuses on plastics.

However, he also acknowledged the challenges faced in Uganda, where it seems like the battle against plastics is being lost due to the prevalent pollution in the area.

Amaanigaruhanga stressed the need for Ugandans to awaken and make a change in their lifestyles. He emphasized that if individuals take action now, there is still a chance to make a difference and effectively address the issue.

He called upon civil society and the government, particularly the regulatory body NEMA, to play their part in regulating the production and use of plastics by implementing stringent standards.

The ED further highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and other civil society organizations to raise resources and support all stakeholders working against plastic production and usage in the country. He also urged the government to swiftly establish a policy framework that discourages the production and use of environmentally degrading materials such as polythene bags.

Mr Francis Ogwal, the Senior Manager of Environment Planning and Coordination at NEMA, informed journalists that the plastic cleanup initiative is part of the activities planned for World Environment Day 2023, under the theme ‘Stop Plastic Pollution Now.’ Ogwal emphasized the importance of demonstrating to communities the benefits derived from removing plastics and discouraging littering.