Once hailed as one of Africa's cleanest cities, Arua City now grapples with a mounting waste management crisis that threatens to mar its reputation. In a recent gathering of local stakeholders at the Dezert Breeze Hotel on October 18, 2023,
Dr. Kiggundu Amin Tamale, a representative from Makerere University, shed light on the pressing issue of waste management, emphasizing the urgency of community engagement in restoring the city's cleanliness. According to research conducted by Makerere University, Arua City generates a staggering 70,000 tonnes of waste, but only a mere 10% of this waste is being properly collected and disposed of, leaving the streets and neighborhoods plagued with unsightly garbage. Dr. Kiggundu appealed to the city council to prioritize educating the community on waste management practices to address this dire situation. Citing the city's glorious past, he remarked,
"In 2014, Arua City was celebrated as one of the cleanest cities in Africa. However, it's disheartening to witness its decline into one of the dirtiest cities in the region."
Rashul Osugga, the speaker of Arua Central, voiced concerns that the negligence of waste management contractors was a significant contributor to the problem. He highlighted that these contractors took advantage of the night hours to indiscriminately dump garbage on the streets, exacerbating the issue.
"The irresponsible actions of these waste management contractors have contributed significantly to the deteriorating state of our city," Osugga stated during the meeting.
Deputy Mayor Milly Inzikuru weighed in on the matter, emphasizing that Arua City's cleanliness crisis is linked to inadequate funding from the central government. The lack of financial support has been affecting the delivery of essential services throughout the area, including waste management.
"Inadequate funding from the central government has strained our ability to address this waste management issue effectively," Inzikuru expressed. "To restore the cleanliness of our city, we must secure the necessary resources to enhance our services."
With the revelations made during the gathering, Arua City stands at a pivotal crossroads, and its residents, alongside local authorities, are now challenged to take the necessary steps to revitalize the city's reputation for cleanliness. Collaborative efforts, community education, and increased financial support are imperative for Arua City to overcome its mounting garbage crisis and once again stand as a beacon of cleanliness in Africa.
By ANWANGKANI FRANCO Dailywestnile.info
