Unmasking Kampala’s Environmental Reality: Who Carries the Burden?

Walking through the vibrant streets of Kampala, I am filled with a mix of appreciation and sorrow.

The city is alive with its bustling energy, but as I stroll with friends along Busega road, the beauty is marred by the sight of garbage and soil piled carelessly by the roadside. It is a disheartening reality that begs the question: who is responsible for cleaning up this mess?

The Sunday walk served as a stark reminder of a recurring issue in our beloved city. Trenches are cleared, but the debris is never properly disposed of, only to find its way back into the very trenches it was removed from. The result is an eyesore that not only reflects poorly on our city but also contributes to environmental degradation.

The responsibility for carrying off the rubbish and soil seems to be shrouded in ambiguity. One can’t help but wonder why the workers don’t leave the soil in the trenches until they are ready to dispose it off properly. Such practices reflect a lack of oversight and accountability, leaving us to question the effectiveness of our city or town council leaders. Do they truly care about the state of our streets and neighborhoods? Are they diligently supervising and monitoring the work being done? And most importantly, are they holding those responsible accountable?

The phrase “Government etuyambe” has become a daily anthem, echoing through the city streets, but we must pause and reflect on its meaning.

Who is the government when those we entrust with our hard-earned taxes fail to fulfill their duties? It is disheartening to witness public servants falling short of their obligations, all while we call out for help.

It is not all doom and gloom, though. I believe that even with our limited resources, we can do better to maintain and protect our environment. Initiatives must be taken, and responsibilities must be assumed by all citizens. If we truly have a heart for this country, we must not simply rely on government intervention but must also act as responsible stewards of our environment.

Imagine the impact we could make if each of us took the initiative to keep our surroundings clean and tidy. Small actions like disposing of waste properly, participating in community clean-up drives, and reporting environmental violations can add up to create a cleaner and healthier city.

Furthermore, education and awareness play a significant role in instilling a sense of responsibility towards our environment. Schools, community centers, and media outlets should join hands in spreading the message of environmental conservation, making it a collective effort embraced by all.

As we yearn for a better Kampala, we must also remember that it starts with us, the citizens. We have the power to shape our city’s destiny and create a legacy of environmental stewardship for generations to come. Let us rise to the occasion and be the change we wish to see. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Kampala – a city we can be truly proud of.