Uganda Validates the Health and Pollution Action Plan (HPAP)

Uganda faces growing pollution challenges with serious implications for public health. Air pollution from vehicles and biomass fuels contributes to widespread respiratory illness, while water pollution—driven by untreated sewage, industrial effluent and poor waste management continues to threaten communities and ecosystems. 

To address these challenges, the Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP), through the Environmental Pollution Programme (EPP) and with financial support from the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), supported the Government of Uganda to develop the Health and Pollution Action Plan (HPAP) in close collaboration with national institutions.

The HPAP prioritises pollution interventions with the greatest potential to reduce disease and improve health outcomes, ensuring resources are directed where public health benefits are strongest. The process was led by the Government of Uganda, with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) coordinating engagement with development partners. 

Open waste burning and unmanaged waste piles close to residential areas in Kampala (Credit: GAHP 2025)

A Collaborative, Evidence-based Process 

The HPAP process brought together experts from government ministries and agencies, civil society organisations, academic institutions, the private sector and development partners. GAHP shared a review of existing policies alongside national and international data on health and pollution. Ugandan experts analysed this evidence, strengthened data and identified priority areas: outdoor and indoor air pollution, water pollution, waste management, and exposure to agrochemicals and heavy metals. 

More than 50 national experts participated in the Technical Working Groups (TWGs) meetings throughout 2025 to assess health impacts and develop practical, implementable interventions tailored to the Ugandan context. 

Validation and Next Steps 

The HPAP priorities and interventions were formally reviewed and validated on December 15, 2025, during the HPAP Official Validation Ceremony. Stakeholders from government, civil society, development partners and the private sector endorsed the plan, confirming alignment with national development frameworks and reinforcing commitment to implementation. NEMA was recognised as a key government partner for coordinating follow-up actions and engagement with development partners. 

“The validation of the HPAP marks an important milestone in strengthening the link between pollution control and public health in Uganda. The Ministry of Health welcomes this evidence based and collaborative roadmap and looks forward to its implementation to reduce pollution related disease and protect the health of our communities.” 

— Ministry of Health, Uganda 

GAHP will continue working with the Government of Uganda, NEMA and national partners to support resource mobilisation and help translate HPAP priorities into action. Development partners are invited to align their investments with the HPAP priorities and join this coordinated effort to turn evidence into action and deliver lasting health gains for the people of Uganda and beyond.