By: 𝐗𝐲𝐞𝐢 𝐦𝐜 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥
KAMPALA – UGANDA
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to reduce air pollution levels in Uganda’s capital by 50 percent by 2030 as part of a broader strategy to improve public health, protect the environment, and create a cleaner and more sustainable city.
The commitment was announced by KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki while presenting “The Kampala Experience” at the Africa Clean Air Forum 2026 held in Pretoria, South Africa. She said Kampala is implementing the Kampala Clean Air Action Plan 2025–2030, which focuses on expanding air quality monitoring, promoting cleaner transport systems, increasing public participation, and strengthening environmental regulations.
According to Buzeki, Kampala has made significant progress in monitoring air quality, expanding from the first monitoring sensors installed in 2018 to a network of 134 stations that provide real-time air quality data to the public. Despite these improvements, the city currently records an average air pollution level of 39 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), highlighting the need for stronger interventions.
She explained that the city’s clean air strategy is supported by existing environmental and public health laws, as well as the proposed Kampala Air Quality Management Bill, which is expected to provide a stronger legal framework for pollution control.
Among the key initiatives outlined are the construction of cycling lanes and pedestrian walkways, the introduction of electric buses, and tax incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and motorcycles. KCCA has also established a modern traffic control centre aimed at reducing traffic congestion and lowering vehicle emissions, which remain one of the leading causes of air pollution in Kampala.
Buzeki emphasized that community participation is central to the success of the initiative. Residents are taking part in environmental clean-up campaigns, journalists are being trained as clean air champions, and Village Health Teams are supporting air quality monitoring at the community level.
Environmental experts have welcomed the initiative, saying that improved air quality will contribute to better public health, reduce respiratory illnesses, and enhance the overall quality of life for Kampala residents if the targets are successfully achieved.
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