Uganda, through the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), is today, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, commemorating World Environment Day (WED) at the Kigezi High Primary School grounds in Kabale District.
His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, is expected to officiate as Chief Guest. This year’s national theme is “United Against Plastic Pollution,” aligning with the global call to action: “End Plastic Pollution.”
Although WED is internationally observed on June 5, Uganda’s national celebrations were postponed to accommodate other pressing national commitments.
Established in 1972 by the United Nations General Assembly, World Environment Day is the UN’s principal platform for fostering environmental awareness and global action. It is spearheaded globally by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with NEMA leading national coordination in Uganda.
Dr. Akankwasah Barirega, Executive Director of NEMA, emphasized the urgency of this year’s theme:
“The global call to ‘End Plastic Pollution’ is a resounding appeal to urgently address the growing crisis of plastic waste. In Uganda, the issue is particularly alarming.”
Uganda generates approximately 600 metric tonnes of plastic waste daily, with Kampala City alone contributing around 180 tonnes. However, only about 30% of this waste is collected, leaving the rest to pollute drainage systems, water bodies, and natural habitats—creating public health risks and harming ecosystems.
Dr. Barirega further cited NEMA research indicating that globally, only 9% of plastic waste is recycled, while 79% ends up in landfills or the natural environment. In Uganda, this pollution poses serious threats to public health, agriculture, biodiversity, and the country’s blue economy.
The global WED 2025 celebrations were hosted by the Republic of Korea in Jeju Special Self-Governing Province—an emerging leader in the fight against plastic pollution.
Uganda’s national objectives for this year’s commemoration include:
- Raising public awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution;
- Inspiring cross-sectoral action;
- Promoting partnerships between government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities.
In the lead-up to today’s event, NEMA and its partners organized a series of nationwide activities, including:
- Tree planting and clean-up campaigns across the Kigezi sub-region;
- National and regional dialogues on plastic policy;
- Music, dance, drama, and debate competitions in schools;
- Social media campaigns and broadcast media engagement;
- Production and dissemination of documentaries and information materials.
More than five million Ugandans are expected to be reached through these activities, both physically and via media and digital platforms.
As Uganda joins the global community in marking World Environment Day 2025, the call is clear: Collective action is vital to end plastic pollution and safeguard the environment for future generations.
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