Kabale-With just one day left to Uganda’s national celebrations for World Environment Day, preparations are in full swing in Kabale District, the designated host of this year’s event. Scheduled for June 25, 2025, at Kigezi High School Lower Primary grounds, the event will be held under the global theme “United Against Plastic Pollution.”
In the run-up to the celebrations, a town clean-up exercise in Kabale Municipality marked a key highlight of the pre-event activities. Francis Ogwal, Senior Manager for Environment Planning and Coordination at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), flagged off the campaign and called on Ugandans to take personal responsibility for environmental cleanliness.
“Living in a clean environment should be everyone’s responsibility,” said Ogwal. “The air we breathe and the food we eat depend on the state of our environment. A cleaner environment means a healthier, longer life.”
Ogwal condemned the rampant littering of plastics across the country, warning that the habit threatens future generations and places unsustainable pressure on Uganda’s waste management systems. “We must not rely solely on government enforcement. Real change starts with individual behavior,” he emphasized.
He urged residents of Kabale to turn the clean-up campaign into a long-term habit and make their town a model of environmental stewardship. “Let this exercise be a turning point. Long after the celebrations are over, Kabale should remain a clean and plastic-free town.”
Corporate partners are also lending their support. Haralod Luzinda, Chief Commercial Officer at Towarco of Africa, highlighted the company’s green initiatives, including reduced reliance on fossil fuels and a strong push for solar energy adoption. “Our operations are rooted in environmental sustainability. We’re proud to support efforts that combat plastic pollution and promote clean energy,” Luzinda stated.
A high-level district security and coordination meeting chaired by Kabale Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Godfrey Nyakahuma was held at Rukiiko Hall on Makanga Hill to finalize logistics. Nyakahuma praised the decision to host the national event in Kabale, noting its already-visible impact.
“We’ve seen increased tree planting, cleaning activities, and vibrant youth engagement through debates and drama—all helping to instill a culture of environmental responsibility,” the RDC said.
Schools across Kabale have taken an active role, organizing tree planting drives, inter-school debates, and drama competitions centered on environmental conservation, all aimed at cultivating environmental awareness among the youth.
The celebrations will culminate in a high-profile event graced by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is expected to plant a commemorative tree at the venue. His presence will underscore the government’s commitment to addressing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices.
World Environment Day, established by the United Nations in 1972, is observed annually to encourage global awareness and action to protect the environment. This year’s theme emphasizes collaborative action to tackle the growing plastic crisis, which has become a major threat to ecosystems worldwide.
According to NEMA, over 8.3 billion tons of plastic have been produced globally, with only 9% recycled and nearly 80% ending up in landfills or natural environments. Uganda alone generates an estimated 600 metric tons of plastic waste daily, with Kampala accounting for 180 metric tons—most of which remains uncollected.
As the world turns its attention to environmental challenges, Uganda’s celebrations in Kabale are expected to inspire renewed commitment and innovation in the fight against plastic pollution.
Meanwhile, the international World Environment Day 2025 celebrations will be hosted in Jeju Province, Republic of Korea—hailed for its pioneering anti-plastic policies and bold pledge to become plastic-free by 2040.
With eyes now on Kabale, Uganda’s participation in this global movement aims to spotlight national efforts and catalyze local action for a cleaner, greener future.
