The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has taken decisive action against Pramukh Steel Ltd., suspending its operations due to pollution allegations on River Nile.
According to the NEMA press release of Friday, November 22, 2024, there have been community complaints regarding water contamination caused by continued waste and emissions.
Pramukh Steel Limited is a steel manufacturing company in Uganda that produces steel bars and high-tensile steel profiles for the construction of domestic and industrial structures.
The Minister of State in the Office of the Vice President, Diana Nankunda Mutasingwa, ordered an immediate halt in the operation of the steel manufacturing company after allegations of direct waste discharge into the River Nile, drugging an action taken during a site inspection aimed at protecting local communities and the environment from industrial pollution.
“There has been significant public reaction against these factories, with local residents protesting against pollution that affects their water sources,” she said.
She added that communities expressed concerns about the health risks posed by industrial waste in their district and surrounding communities of contamination of their only water supply, causing fear about water consumption.
The minister tasked Pramukh Steel Ltd and Victoria Plastics Ltd to construct boreholes for communities to provide drinking water sources for them, replacing the contaminated waters that put the lives of people at risk.
According to the District Environment Officer, Solomon Musoke, they had previously conducted a fact-finding tour in February 2024, aimed at assessing environmental compliance among various industries in Mukono, Buikwe, and Jinja districts.
Their action included discussions on waste disposal practices and the necessity for industries to maintain effective wastewater treatment systems, which was NEMA’s crucial involvement as it seeks to enforce environmental regulations and ensure that industries adhere to proper waste management practices.
“We as authority have faced challenges in balancing economic development with environmental protection, especially as the country promotes industrial growth,” Musoke said.
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He added that the recent factory closures reflect NEMA’s commitment to addressing pollution issues but also highlight the need for sustainable solutions that consider both environmental health and economic livelihoods.
NEMA’s engagement with Pramukh Steel Ltd and Victoria Plastics Ltd is a step towards mitigating pollution problems, but it also raises important questions about how to effectively manage industrial waste while supporting local economies in the country.
