Crackdown on Households Without Latrines Intensifies in Namutumba District
By Skika Reporter
Leaders in Namutumba District have intensified efforts to improve sanitation, warning that residents without pit latrines will face arrest if they fail to comply within a set deadline.
The campaign, driven by the district’s public health and sanitation department and supported by cultural and religious leaders, targets households still practicing open defecation. Authorities have issued a 14-day ultimatum for residents to construct pit latrines.
Public health officer Deborah Naigaga said those who ignore the directive will be prosecuted.
“Anyone found without a latrine after the 14 days will be arrested and taken to court,” she warned.
District health inspector Wycliffe Kasubi revealed that sanitation coverage remains low, with about 38 percent of homes lacking pit latrines. He noted that this has contributed to frequent outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, typhoid and diarrhoea.
Kasubi explained that while some residents are willing to construct latrines, they lack the necessary tools to dig them.
To bridge this gap, ALBOH Uganda has distributed items such as spades and pick mattocks to affected households.
“We are working with communities to promote hygiene, including proper handwashing and sanitation, while also providing tools to support local efforts,” said Noah Birumi.
Authorities also pointed to cultural practices and beliefs as a barrier. According to Naigaga, some members of the Baise “Ndase” clan do not traditionally use latrines, while others resist due to religious reasons.
Cultural leadership has thrown its weight behind the enforcement. The Kisiki of Busiki Chiefdom, Nabongho Yololim, called for decisive action against non-compliant residents.
“A healthy community starts with proper sanitation. Those without latrines should be dealt with according to the law,” he said.
Residents, however, say poverty continues to hinder compliance. Peter Waiswa noted that building a standard latrine can cost about Shs500,000, which many families cannot afford.
Others cited lack of equipment as a long-standing challenge but expressed hope after receiving tools.
“We did not have the tools before, but now we are hopeful we can start digging and complete our latrines,” said Waiswa Maka.
District officials say they will closely track progress over the next two weeks, maintaining that anyone who fails to meet the requirement will face legal action under the Public Health Act.
