KCCA Allocates Shs 50 Million to Combat Kampala's Bedbug Infestation

Kampala residents are set to receive support in their fight against bedbugs and cockroaches, as the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has announced a Shs 50 million allocation for pest eradication efforts. This funding comes in response to widespread public concern and numerous complaints regarding the pervasive infestation.

The commitment was made public during the weekly “Weyonje” community clean-up initiative, spearheaded by KCCA Executive Director Hajat Sharifah Buzeki. This exercise, held every Saturday, aims to promote hygiene and proper waste management within the city.

During the recent clean-up in Kawempe One Parish, residents and local leaders highlighted the severity of the bedbug and cockroach problem. Joseph Kibuga, LC I chairperson of Kawempe Kirokole and Deputy Mayor of Kawempe Division, noted that many citizens suffer in silence due to the stigma associated with infestations. He also pointed to poor sanitation, overcrowded housing, and inadequate ventilation as contributing factors to the pests’ proliferation.

KCCA Executive Director Buzeki urged local leaders to pinpoint the most affected areas to ensure targeted interventions. She stressed the importance of household hygiene in controlling these pests and cautioned against illegal dumping, warning of legal repercussions for offenders.

Community groups, such as the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), have already been actively involved in fumigating homes, but their efforts are being outpaced by the scale of the problem. Henry Mpiima of PLU appealed for additional resources to bolster these initiatives.

Discussions also touched upon other pressing civic issues, including the need for more garbage trucks and the improvement of drainage systems in Kawempe Division. Buzeki acknowledged the city’s current fleet of 34 garbage trucks and confirmed that Parliament has approved funds for the procurement of five additional vehicles. Plans for major drainage channel upgrades, such as Lubigi and Nalukolongo, are also underway, supported by presidential directives for financing.

https://observer.ug/news/kcca-allocates-shs-50m-to-fight-bedbugs-in-kampala