Urban leaders across Western Uganda have been urged to revamp waste management systems and protect government land as a strategic resource to drive sustainable development in urban areas.
This call was made by Charles Magumba, Commissioner for Urban Administration, while addressing leaders at the opening of the Western Region Urban Authorities Association of Uganda (UAAU) engagement, held in Rukungiri Municipality.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Local Government’s Permanent Secretary, Ben Kumumanya, Magumba stressed the urgency of instilling waste separation practices at household level and improving waste collection and disposal systems.
He emphasized that the new National Waste Management Policy, jointly developed with the ministries of Lands, Water, Energy, and ICT, is expected to introduce a streamlined approach to waste handling from generation to recycling.
The policy, he noted, is now in its final stages and is expected to be tabled for approval soon.
Highlighting the strategic importance of land in urban development, Magumba applauded municipal leaders who have actively protected government land.
He pointed out that securing such land creates opportunities for attracting private sector partners through public-private partnerships (PPPs).
“When land is presented as equity, it draws partners with the capital needed to drive development,” he stated.
Sanya K.F. Wilson, President of UAAU, echoed these sentiments and challenged urban leaders to take charge of their municipalities’ future by focusing on service delivery.
He emphasized that efficient waste management and smart land use planning are central pillars for building livable and resilient urban spaces.
The meeting also delved into strategies for aligning revenue collection practices among urban authorities.
Discussions focused on enabling authorities to charge operational fees on businesses without breaching regulatory frameworks.
Running from May 7 to May 23, 2025, the UAAU regional engagement is being held under the theme: “Enhancing the New Urban Agenda: Focus on the UAAU Member’s Charter, Waste Management, and Land Use Management in Urban Local Governments.”
Rukungiri’s meeting is the first in a series of regional dialogues, with similar events scheduled for Kitgum (Northern Uganda), Kapchorwa (Eastern Uganda), and Mubende (Central Uganda).
The forum attracted leaders from cities, municipalities, town councils, and urban divisions, offering them a platform to exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen collaborative efforts in delivering better urban services.
Participants reaffirmed the importance of speaking with one voice to shape sustainable urban governance across the country.
