By: Our reporter

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has called for a national conversation on land zoning, saying proper land-use planning is critical to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable urban development in Uganda.

NEMA argues that clearly designating land for specific purposes—such as residential areas, industries, health facilities, hotels, educational institutions, places of worship, sports facilities, entertainment venues, and commercial centres—would help minimize environmental degradation and improve the quality of life for citizens.

Speaking on the issue, NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasa said Uganda’s rapid urbanization, coupled with poor physical planning, has resulted in incompatible developments operating side by side, exposing communities to various forms of pollution.

He noted that in Kampala and many other urban centres, the absence of effective land zoning has fueled the growth of mixed-use developments that combine residential apartments with commercial, retail, and office spaces within the same buildings or complexes.

According to Dr. Barirega, while mixed-use developments offer convenience by allowing residents to access shops, restaurants, offices, and other essential services within walking distance, they can also create serious environmental and public health concerns if they are not properly planned and regulated.

He explained that residents living close to businesses such as bars, restaurants, workshops, factories, and entertainment venues are often exposed to excessive noise, air pollution, unpleasant odours, poor waste management, increased traffic congestion, and safety risks. These challenges can negatively affect people’s health, productivity, and overall well-being.

Dr. Barirega emphasized that proper land zoning would enable authorities to separate incompatible activities, ensuring that industrial operations are located away from residential neighbourhoods while preserving adequate space for public institutions, green areas, and recreation facilities.

He further stressed that effective land-use planning would not only reduce pollution but also improve service delivery, strengthen environmental protection, attract sustainable investment, and make towns and cities more orderly and resilient.

NEMA is encouraging government agencies, local authorities, urban planners, developers, and the public to actively participate in discussions on land zoning to ensure Uganda’s growing urban centres develop in an environmentally sustainable and well-organized manner.The authority believes that with coordinated planning and enforcement of zoning regulations, Uganda can significantly reduce pollution while creating healthier, safer, and more livable communities for future generations.