365 Days of Collaborative Action In Uganda

Uganda, like many other countries, is experiencing increasing levels of pollution in several forms. Water sources are affected by waste and sanitation challenges. Certain farming practices may contribute to chemical runoff into the land and rivers. In urban areas such as Kampala, air pollution levels have been reported as elevated, with some studies indicating fine particulate concentrations above recommended health guidelines. 

GAHP has worked in Uganda since 2023, and in 2025, the organisation, in collaboration with Uganda’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and other partners, contributed to coordinating efforts to address these challenges through the Environmental Pollution Programme in Uganda (EPP-UG).

By bringing together ministries, researchers, civil society, and communities, GAHP contributed to creating a platform for sharing perspectives and advancing solutions to pollution issues. 

A process began with listening 

Nearly 600 participants came together through meetings, workshops, and a national conference to shape Uganda’s Health and Pollution Action Plan.   These discussions helped move from broad concerns to clearer priorities and practical actions. But the real shift has happened beyond these spaces.

Future solutions are grounded in both data and local realities 

Future actions are increasingly informed by both data and local context. The “Source Apportionment of Traffic Related Air Pollution (TRAP) in Kampala” project carried out by the University of Birmingham, Makerere University, and AirQo is helping to better understand the sources of air pollution in Kampala, where rapid population growth and increasing traffic are placing growing pressure on air quality. 

At the same time, awareness is expanding beyond in-person activities. Through digital outreach, the programme has reached more than 270,000 people, extending engagement on pollution issues to a broader audience.

Looking back, the past year has not been defined by a single solution, but by stronger connections.

And at the heart of this progress are the partnerships that are turning knowledge into action, one community at a time.