Kampala, the vibrant capital of Uganda, has witnessed unprecedented urban growth over the past few decades. With an annual population growth rate of 4.03%, Kampala is one of the fastest-growing cities in East Africa, now hosting an estimated two million residents within its official boundaries and more than 3.5 million in its metropolitan area. This rapid urbanization, while driving economic opportunities, has placed immense pressure on the city’s fragile ecosystems, raising a critical question in my mind: Can human settlement and urban ecology coexist in Kampala?
The Challenge of Urban Expansion
Urban expansion often occurs at the expense of natural ecosystems. In Kampala, the city’s wetlands, which once covered about 20 square kilometres, have shrunk by nearly 50% over the past 30 years due to encroachment for residential, industrial, and commercial purposes. Key wetlands such as Lubigi, Nakivubo, and Kyetinda – critical for water filtration, flood control, and biodiversity – have been severely degraded.
The environmental consequences of this encroachment are stark. For instance, according to data from the Ministry of Water and Environment, Kampala experiences an average of five severe flood incidents annually, disrupting transportation and commerce. Additionally, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation reports that pollution levels in urban water sources have increased by 60% in the last decade. Biodiversity loss is also a major concern, as wetlands in Kampala are home to more than 150 bird species whose survival is now threatened by habitat destruction. The loss of these natural ecosystems affects not only environmental health but also economic stability, as approximately 10% of Kampala’s population depends on wetlands for food, papyrus harvesting, and other livelihoods.
Striking a Balance: Urban Ecology in Focus
Urban ecology offers a framework for harmonizing human settlement with natural environments. It emphasizes preserving and rehabilitating ecological assets such as green spaces and wetlands while accommodating urban growth. Achieving this balance requires robust policies and urban planning frameworks that prioritize sustainability without stifling development.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has spearheaded efforts to promote urban ecological practices in Kampala. Collaborative efforts have led to the reclamation of portions of the Lubigi Wetland, which has significantly reduced annual flood damage costs by approximately UGX 2 billion, according to expert estimates. NEMA has also encouraged the use of eco-friendly construction materials and energy-efficient designs while promoting green corridors, urban parks, and non-motorized transport lanes as part of Kampala’s development strategy.
A Vision for Coexistence
The possibility of coexistence between human settlements and urban ecology in Kampala is undeniable but requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders. The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), under the leadership of Executive Director Hajat Sharifah Buzeki, must strengthen governance and enforce environmental regulations. Addressing traffic congestion through expanded public transport systems, among other things, is another essential step toward achieving a sustainable urban environment.
Role of Communities and Local Governments
Community engagement is crucial for sustainable urban development. NEMA has adopted an approach that involves education and empowerment, with more than 100,000 residents participating in workshops on sustainable land use and waste management since 2020. Initiatives such as eco-tourism and urban farming provide residents with sustainable income sources while reducing pressure on wetlands.
Local governments must integrate environmental considerations into all stages of urban planning. For example, the planting of 10,000 trees under KCCA’s green city initiative can improve air quality in key areas, though more ambitious yet attainable targets are necessary to meet the growing demand.
Innovation and Technology
Technology offers transformative solutions to urban ecological challenges. The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing enables real-time monitoring of environmental changes, while innovations such as permeable pavements and rainwater harvesting systems can mitigate flooding and promote water conservation. These tools and approaches pave the way for a more sustainable urbanization model for Kampala.
A Path to Sustainable Urbanisation
Kampala’s future lies in sustainable urbanisation, where human settlement and ecology are not seen as opposing forces but as complementary aspects of urban life. By embracing urban ecology principles, Kampala can evolve into a city that supports both human prosperity and sustainable environmental health.
As NEMA continues to champion the cause of ecological sustainability, the path forward involves a united effort between government, developers, communities, and every resident and visitor of Kampala. Together, we can build a city where human settlement and nature not only coexist but thrive, creating a model for other rapidly urbanising cities across the country and Africa.
Plea to the KCCA ED
This article cannot be complete without a final plea to Hajat Buzeki. Humans and a beautiful urban environment can still co-exist in Kampala City if Hajat Buzeki can, among other competing priorities, focus on strengthening governance, improve waste management, restore green spaces, ease traffic congestion, and promote inclusive urban development. Other key priorities she must not forget include restoring wetlands, enhancing public transport, enforcing environmental regulations, and boosting revenue collection – all transparently. Building public trust through visible actions such as cleaning Kampala streets and engaging communities will set a strong foundation for sustainable and inclusive city growth. Hajat, walk the talk and redeem our city.
Mr. William Lubuulwa is the Senior Public Relations Officer at NEMA.
