Pictorial: USAID, AF, Tufts and Makerere University Unite For A Cleaner Kampala

Residents of Banda's Acholi Quarters and Kamwokya's Kifumbira Zone joined forces on December 11 and 12 for a transformative two-day environmental campaign under the Environmental Defenders Project. Spearheaded by the Aliguma Foundation in collaboration with USAID, Tufts University, and Makerere University, the initiative aimed to address critical waste management challenges in Kampala's urban slums. 

Earning Proper Mileage. Minister Kabuye Kyofatogabye (yellow boots) addressing the locals and project's funders and implementers before the two-day cleaning exercise. (All Photos/AF Media)

The campaign, with its theme “Reduce, Recycle, Reuse”, saw enthusiastic participation from local residents. Activities included garbage collection, clearing drainage systems, and sorting recyclable materials. Equipped with gloves and tools, participants demonstrated a hands-on commitment to improving their neighborhoods. 

Speaking at the event's launch, Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, Minister of State for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility.

“This is the Kampala we want: A clean, smart environment where we all take pride in our surroundings,” he remarked. 

Covering more areas

Professor Karen Jacobsen of Tufts University highlighted the project's long-term vision.

“This is only the beginning. We aim to expand these efforts to other areas like Bwaise and Nakawa, inspiring a cleaner, healthier urban environment across Uganda,” she said. 

For Ritah Aliguma, CEO of the Aliguma Foundation, the event was more than a cleanup—it was a movement.

Face The Press: Tufts University's Karen Jacobsen (L) addresses the local journalists on the primary objective of the Plastic & Waste Management Initiative.

“Even in underserved areas like Banda and Kamwokya, collective action can drive lasting change,” she noted. 

The campaign achieved remarkable results, restoring cleanliness to streets, drainage systems, and public spaces. Residents also gained valuable knowledge on sustainable waste management practices, including recycling and repurposing waste. 

The success of this initiative demonstrates the power of community-led action in tackling urban challenges, setting the stage for cleaner, healthier environments in Kampala and beyond. 

Below is a photo collage, showcasing government officials, project initiators, volunteers and residents actively participating in waste collection, sorting recyclables, and the transformed neighborhoods of Banda and Kamwokya.