On 6th May 2025, at the Uganda Media Centre, the Minister of State for Environment officially launched the national activities for World Environment Day 2025. This year’s theme is “United Against Plastic Pollution”, and Uganda is ready to take strong steps in the fight against plastic waste. This event aims to raise awareness and inspire collective action to protect our environment from the harmful effects of plastic.
World Environment Day is a global event celebrated every year on June 5th. It was first established in 1972 after the United Nations held the first major environmental conference in Stockholm, Sweden. Since 1974, countries around the world have been observing this day to promote environmental protection. Over 150 countries, including Uganda, mark this day to show their commitment to safeguarding nature and ensuring a greener, more sustainable future.
This year’s global focus is on plastic pollution—a growing environmental crisis that affects land, water, and even human health. Plastic waste blocks drainage systems, causes flooding, and contaminates our water sources. Wildlife often mistake plastics for food, while microplastics have been found in the food we eat, raising serious health concerns. These tiny plastic particles have been linked to diseases such as cancer and reproductive disorders.
The Ugandan government has recognized the seriousness of plastic pollution and is taking strong steps to address it. The Ministry of Water and Environment, in collaboration with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), is implementing legal and policy measures such as the National Environment Act and the National Environment Waste Management Regulations. The ban on single-use plastics is also a critical step in reducing waste.
To strengthen this effort, the government is focusing on six key strategies. First, it will enhance the enforcement of existing plastic waste laws. Second, it will promote the use of environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics. Third, the government aims to improve waste collection and recycling systems. Fourth, public awareness campaigns will be carried out to educate citizens about the dangers of plastic. Fifth, the government will build partnerships with private companies, civil society organizations, and communities to develop effective solutions. Lastly, it will support local initiatives that promote reuse and recycling through circular economy models.
Uganda’s national celebration of World Environment Day 2025 will take place in Kabale District, located in the Kigezi sub-region. A wide range of activities has been planned to engage the public, especially the youth, and inspire action. These include comprehensive media engagements on radio and television, school-based competitions such as debates, quizzes, and essay writing, and tree planting exercises to restore degraded land in Kabale.
Additionally, clean-up exercises will target areas heavily affected by plastic waste, while community dialogues will bring together citizens and policymakers to discuss sustainable solutions. Online campaigns will help spread key messages to a wider audience, and exhibitions will highlight innovative, eco-friendly products. Environmental champions—individuals and organizations making a real difference—will also be identified and honored.
As Uganda joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Environment Day, the Minister called on all stakeholders to play their part. Ministries, government agencies, civil society organizations, private sector actors, and the general public must work together. Fighting plastic pollution is not the government’s job alone—it requires unity, commitment, and responsibility from everyone.
Together, we can protect our natural resources, safeguard our health, and preserve the beauty of Uganda for generations to come. Let us all join hands and declare with one voice: We are united against plastic pollution!
