MUGABE R
Bikurungu Town Council in Rukungiri District is facing growing concern over poor garbage disposal, with rotting waste accumulating in collection pits, polluting the environment, and posing serious health risks.
The town, which accommodates a large population engaging in daily markets, institutions, and various commercial activities, reportedly lacks proper mechanisms for garbage collection and pit emptying.
Karoli Tibebuuza, a mobile market trader, expressed worry over the failure to slash and spray the market grounds, highlighting the risk of disease from exposure to pesticides. Claire Tumuramye, another mobile trader, pointed out the flooding during the Thursday routine open market due to the absence of drainage channels and the foul smell emanating from small and poorly maintained public toilets.
Deus Ahimbisibwe, Chairperson of the Rukungiri District Mobile Traders Association, emphasized the challenges posed by rotting garbage and the unhygienic conditions at the slaughter slab.
Local businessman and politician, Lion Sunday George Rwakinwa, urged voluntary community efforts to manage garbage, including burning non-perishable waste, while criticizing the leadership for failing to procure an official dumping site, which has contributed to land degradation.
Amon Akankwatsa, Male Youth Councilor and Secretary for Finance, questioned the adequacy of the garbage collection budget given the increasing accumulation of waste, and called for leaders to take collective action in addressing the problem.
Wallen Kajuna, Mayor of Bikurungu Town Council, acknowledged the burden posed by the growing population. He confirmed that the health inspector had been ordered to prepare a report on the situation and noted that the absence of an official dumping site continues to complicate the management of non-perishable waste.
