Government has launched a nationwide electronic waste management campaign, integrating the collection and proper disposal of discarded electronic equipment into the monthly National Cleaning Day initiative.
The campaign, launched by the Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who represented Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja as Chief Cleaner, during the fourth National Cleaning Day activities in Lira City on Saturday, October 31, 2026, seeks to promote responsible disposal of electronic waste and protect communities from its harmful effects.
Baryomunsi urged Ugandans to make cleanliness an everyday responsibility rather than waiting for designated cleaning days, saying proper hygiene, sanitation, and waste management are essential in preventing diseases.
He also commended the Ministry of Water and Environment for promoting waste separation, including electronic waste, plastics, organic waste, and grass, as part of broader efforts to improve waste management.
The minister revealed that government is in advanced stages of introducing waste-to-value initiatives, including recycling plastics and converting organic waste into fertiliser.
He also announced plans to introduce a national cleanliness competition among cities and districts, with awards for communities that demonstrate good sanitation practices.
Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba urged Ugandans to separate discarded electronic equipment from ordinary household rubbish, warning against burning such materials because of the dangers they pose to human health and the environment.
She said the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), in partnership with Lira City leaders and Lira University, would spearhead public sensitisation and coordinate e-waste collection across the Lango sub-region, with collection facilities established at Lira University.
The initiative is expected to strengthen public awareness about electronic waste, including discarded mobile phones, computers, televisions, and other electronic equipment, while encouraging communities to adopt safer disposal practices.
Government Chief Whip and Lira City Woman MP Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero said she initiated the Keep Uganda Clean programme, which was presented to Cabinet and received support from Parliament and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Aceng challenged Lira residents to work towards making the city the cleanest in Uganda, particularly ahead of the forthcoming African Games at Akii-Bua Stadium.
Dokolo North MP Joseph Jones Ogwal, who had earlier joined residents in Amuda Ward, Agwata Town Council, said he would continue championing the National Cleaning Day campaign beyond his current parliamentary term.
Lira Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole commended residents for embracing the exercise, saying their participation demonstrated community commitment without the need for security enforcement.
Uganda’s National Cleaning Day is observed on the last Saturday of every month from 7am to 10am, following Cabinet approval in August 2025. The initiative officially commenced on July 25, 2026.
During the three-hour exercise, businesses close and public, and private transport is restricted, except for essential services, security personnel, and medical emergencies.
The fourth edition was held on October 31, 2026, with Lira City hosting the national focus activities.