Background
Uganda is facing a growing waste management challenge, particularly in Kampala, due to rapid population growth and urbanization. The waste generated in the capital is expected to rise significantly, from 3,206 tons per day in 2015 to 4,739 tons per day by 2030. Currently, the only operational landfill in Kampala, Kiteezi, has exceeded its capacity, handling around 1,200 tons of waste daily without proper waste reuse or treatment facilities. The landfill operates using open dumping methods, leading to serious environmental and health risks, including methane gas-related fires, soil contamination, and leachate pollution of nearby rivers.
To address these issues, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is planning to develop a new landfill in Dundu and implement solid waste management guidelines based on Uganda’s 2017 National Urban Solid Waste Management Policy. The government has also identified environmental sustainability as a key priority under the 3rd Medium-Term Plan (NDP III) to support Uganda’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of this effort, KCCA aims to establish an integrated solid waste management system, increase waste treatment and recycling capacity, and strengthen urban environmental monitoring. However, there is an urgent need to redefine existing policies, improve waste recycling infrastructure, and build technical expertise to enhance landfill management and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from waste disposal.
To achieve these goals, a comprehensive waste management strategy is required, including identifying key challenges, developing alternative solutions, and implementing policies for efficient waste collection, treatment, and recycling. Proper expertise and infrastructure are essential to establish a waste recycling system aligned with national policies, integrate new and existing landfill sites, and support Uganda’s climate commitments through greenhouse gas reduction. Additionally, capacity-building programmes for government officials and technical training initiatives will be crucial to strengthening Uganda’s waste management sector and ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.
CTCN Support
The CTCN Technical Assistance will support Uganda in developing national policies for effective waste landfill management while enhancing the capacity of government officials to implement climate-responsive waste management projects. This initiative will provide technical guidance on sustainable landfill operations, waste recycling infrastructure, and greenhouse gas mitigation strategies.
Expected Outcome
This Technical Assistance aims to establish an integrated waste management system, including strengthened policies, enhanced waste recycling infrastructure, and improved landfill operations. As part of capacity-building activities, government officials will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement sustainable waste management practices effectively. Additionally, the identification and implementation of projects utilizing greenhouse gases from waste will lead to measurable reductions in Uganda’s emissions, directly contributing to the country’s climate targets and long-term environmental sustainability.
