In northern Uganda, communities in Abuga and Okucce face a growing medical waste crisis as Gulu City illegally dumps hazardous trash near schools and water sources. Local incinerators are overwhelmed, and enforcement of Uganda’s waste laws is weak. Though Uganda signed the Bamako Convention in 1991, it has yet to ratify it, leaving communities without access to regional oversight, technical assistance, or accountability mechanisms. Ratification would require proper waste management systems, reporting, and public protection measures. Without urgent action, residents, especially children, remain exposed to toxic waste, highlighting the urgent need for binding national and international safeguards.
Participants pose for a photo after a successful morning session on understanding the Regional Clearing House Mechanism - CHM
Guests registering at the Bmako Convention dialogue forum at the United Statesd International University-Africa
The story highlights how the continued pollution of Lake Victoria and the dumping of hazardous waste is hurting the fish industry. This has been worsened by the delays in implementation of the Bamako Convention.
The video presents the key highlights of the dialogue forum on the Regional Clearinghjouse Mechanism on management of hazardous waste.
While the government of Rwanda has put in place policies, standards, and recycling initiatives to manage electronic waste, unsecures disposals remain common across the country.