Uganda National Cleaning Day sees low turnout and arrests

Uganda’s National Cleaning Day saw varying levels of public engagement and enforcement across different regions. In Kampala, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) reported low turnout during the monthly exercise. In the Kabaawo Zone of Mutundwe Parish, KCCA officials had to conduct door-to-door mobilization to encourage residents to participate. Officials noted challenges including clogged drainage channels, poor sanitation, and physical planning issues that prevent garbage collection trucks from accessing certain neighborhoods.

In Kabale District, the exercise involved more active enforcement. Eight individuals were arrested for allegedly violating National Cleaning Day guidelines, including reports of people consuming alcohol in bars during the scheduled activities. Bank of Uganda Deputy Governor Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba participated in the cleaning efforts in Kabale Municipality alongside government officials and community members. Local authorities emphasized that participation is mandatory and that guidelines, such as the suspension of vehicle movements and business closures, will continue to be enforced on the last Saturday of every month.