The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), in collaboration with AirQo and partners, convened a two-day workshop to strengthen institutional capacity for effective implementation of air quality regulations in Uganda. The workshop brought together environment officers from major cities, government agencies, and academia to advance evidence-based air quality governance.

Tackling a Global Challenge

Poor air quality remains a pressing global issue, contributing to over 7 million premature deaths annually. In response, NEMA launched the National Environment (Air Quality Standards) Regulations, 2024, a landmark step toward enforcing air quality standards nationwide.

Implementation Across Key Sectors

Uganda has already begun rolling out measures across multiple sectors:

• Transport: Mandatory vehicle emission inspections by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
• Industry: Installation of electrostatic precipitators in factories.
• Trade: Enforcement of environmental levies and restrictions on vehicles older than 15 years by URA.
• Monitoring: Deployment of air quality monitors across the country.

Additionally, Uganda is embracing innovation through the e-mobility strategy launched in 2023, prioritising electric mobility. This includes promoting locally manufactured electric vehicles and motorcycles, alongside charging infrastructure rollout by Kiira Motors Ltd.

These combined efforts underscore Uganda’s commitment to improving public health, reducing pollution, and advancing sustainable development.

Day 2: Strengthening Data-Driven Decision Making on Air Quality

Organised by AirQo in collaboration with NEMA, the second day of the workshop focused on bridging perception, baseline data, and policy action.

Public Perception Insights

Dr. Melina Platas (NYU Abu Dhabi) shared striking findings on public perception of air quality in Uganda:

• 80% prefer to receive air quality information via text messages.
• 40% are willing to report polluters to authorities.
• A majority support stronger measures such as fining polluters, removing old cars from roads, and abolishing open waste burning.

Baseline Data from AirQo

• 70% of respondents use charcoal stoves daily.
• 25% burn waste at least once a year.
• 15% drive a car or motorcycle.

Key Recommendations

Participants explored how to translate these insights into measurable outcomes, with proposals including:

• Expanding communication channels for reporting air pollution.
• Translating air quality information into formats accessible to local communities.
• Setting minimum air quality standards and enforcing hefty fines on offenders.
• Allocating resources for enforcement and monitoring.
• Improving agency coordination and mainstreaming air quality issues into policy, planning, and budgeting.

Conclusion

The workshop highlighted the importance of aligning public perception, baseline data, and policy action to achieve meaningful progress. With strengthened regulations, innovative strategies, and collaborative governance, Uganda is charting a path toward cleaner air and healthier communities.