Minister for Kampala, Minsa Kabanda, has reached out to the acting Executive Director of KCCA, urging immediate collaboration with the Jospong Group of Companies, the newly appointed contractor for managing waste at the Kiteezi landfill.
In a letter dated October 15, she emphasized the pressing need to tackle the garbage crisis in Kampala, which was a focal point during a cabinet meeting held the day before.
Urgent Need for Solutions
During the cabinet meeting, concerns were raised regarding the need for an alternative dumpsite for new waste and the management of existing landfill issues.
Kabanda noted that the President suggested the potential use of land on Mityana Road, provided it is free of squatters, and that this action must come with legal guidance from the Attorney General.
Jospong’s Commitment
Kabanda’s letter highlighted Jospong Group’s willingness to implement the capping method to mitigate the height of the Kiteezi landfill.
This technique involves covering waste with a protective layer to prevent environmental contamination, alongside a long-term recycling solution aimed at addressing Kampala’s ongoing waste management challenges.
Engaging the community
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Kabanda instructed the acting KCCA Executive Director to initiate community engagements with residents near the Kiteezi landfill promptly. This outreach is crucial for preparing the community for upcoming work aimed at reducing the landfill’s height and addressing related management issues.
Legal Framework for collaboration
In her correspondence, Kabanda also directed that discussions with the Attorney General commence to formulate a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KCCA and Jospong. This agreement will clearly define the responsibilities of each party regarding Jospong’s operations at Kiteezi.
Learning from Ghana
Earlier this year, a Ugandan delegation visited Ghana to study the waste management systems in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA).
GAMA, home to over five million residents, has made notable progress in waste management through government initiatives, community involvement, and advanced technologies. Uganda’s mission aimed to explore potential collaborations that could enhance its waste management sector.
Ghana’s Success Story
The benchmarking visit underscored Ghana’s successful strategies in managing waste, despite facing challenges akin to those in Uganda. The Jospong Group has been pivotal in Ghana’s advancements in waste management and is viewed as a vital partner for Kampala’s sustainable waste management efforts.
High-Level Discussions Ahead
Following the visit, high-level discussions have commenced between the Jospong Group, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, and key stakeholders from various government ministries and agencies.
These discussions aim to forge a path forward for effective waste management solutions in Kampala, leveraging the insights gained from Ghana’s experience.