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The Ministry of Water and Environment in Uganda is spearheading efforts to address the alarming pollution levels in Lake Victoria by drafting new legislation. Mr. Sam Cheptoris, the Minister of Water and Environment, highlighted the urgent need to curb pollution, emphasizing the detrimental impact of plastic waste on the lake’s ecosystem.
The proposed law, known as the Extended Production Responsibility Act, will hold manufacturers accountable for the waste generated by their products. Under this legislation, manufacturers will be required to trace and collect all waste generated throughout the product’s lifecycle, thereby mitigating its environmental impact.
Minister Cheptoris stressed the severity of pollution in Lake Victoria and other water bodies across the country, calling for collective responsibility in waste management. He emphasized the role of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in addressing waste disposal issues and enforcing environmental regulations.
In response to concerns about plastic waste, Minister Cheptoris revealed plans to implement measures such as requiring vehicle owners to install litter bins. While acknowledging public skepticism towards this initiative, he underscored the importance of individual actions in combating pollution.
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Addressing the challenge of enforcing waste management regulations, Minister Cheptoris acknowledged the complexity of waste disposal practices. The ministry’s focus is primarily on large-scale waste dumping, particularly during the rainy season, when drainage channels become clogged with plastic debris, leading to urban flooding.
The gravity of Lake Victoria’s pollution was underscored during the launch of the Run for the Nile Marathon, aimed at raising funds for plastic waste cleanup efforts. Mr. David Nsubuga Sserwadda, chairman of the organizing committee, highlighted the devastating impact of pollution on the lake’s fishing communities and aquatic life.
According to Mr. Sserwadda, recent studies have identified high concentrations of pesticides and significant amounts of plastic waste in Lake Victoria. To address these challenges, proceeds from the marathon will fund the construction of barriers in major water channels to trap plastic waste and support tree planting initiatives.
The collaborative efforts between the government, NGOs, and the private sector reflect a commitment to preserving Lake Victoria’s ecological integrity.
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