NEMA bans Open Burning of Wastes Nationwide to Protect Health and Environment

By Skika reporter

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has officially banned the practice of open burning of waste across Uganda, citing significant threats to both public health and the environment.

The directive, issued on Friday, February 20, 2026, mandates that all Cities, Urban Authorities, and District Local Governments immediately cease open burning of waste within their areas of jurisdiction. This move is part of the government’s broader effort to tackle the growing environmental and health hazards posed by improper waste disposal methods.

This new ban follows a series of previous warnings, including NEMA’s communications dated August 22, 2024, which reminded local government leaders of their responsibility under the devolved environmental governance framework. Despite these earlier reminders, the widespread practice of open burning continued, prompting the new, more forceful directive.

Naomi Karekaho, NEMA’s Head of Corporate Communications, explained that the decision came after an increasing number of public complaints about open waste burning, particularly in urban areas. “These complaints were confirmed by findings from recent environmental inspections conducted by NEMA’s monitoring team,” Karekaho said. “Our inspections revealed that, despite clear legal and technical frameworks, waste management issues persist, especially in city and town environments.”

Health and Environmental Risks

Open burning of waste, a common practice in many urban areas, releases harmful chemicals into the air, including carbon monoxide, dioxins, and particulate matter, which pose serious risks to respiratory health and contribute to air pollution. The burning of plastics, rubber, and other materials exacerbates these dangers.

Karekaho emphasized that open burning violates Section 78 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181, which prohibits any form of environmental pollution. “This practice is not just a health hazard but also a violation of national environmental laws,” she added.

Enforcement and Accountability

NEMA’s directive also stresses the need for continuous awareness campaigns on proper waste management techniques for local government staff, waste handlers, and communities. Local authorities have been instructed to educate the public on alternative waste disposal methods, including recycling and composting, to prevent environmental harm.

Karekaho further warned that any individual or institution found continuing to burn waste openly will face enforcement actions, including administrative fines, restoration orders, closure of offending facilities, and even prosecution under environmental laws.

“The time for allowing this hazardous practice to continue is over,” Karekaho stated firmly. “Local authorities must lead by example and ensure that waste management is handled in a responsible, environmentally sound manner.”

This ban on open burning is a significant step in Uganda’s effort to improve waste management, reduce pollution, and protect both public health and the environment. NEMA has made it clear that the responsibility for enforcing this directive lies with local authorities, who must now prioritize sustainable waste management practices within their jurisdictions.