Investors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have committed to collaborating with the Ugandan government to transform waste into valuable outputs such as clean energy, fertilizers, and fuel. This commitment was made during a visit by Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, to a waste processing plant in Sharjah, UAE.
During her tour, the Prime Minister learned that the facility processes approximately 1,000 tons of waste daily, generating 30 megawatts of clean energy—enough to power 28,000 households.
“Here, waste contributes to power generation and creates other valuable products. Waste should be viewed as a resource, not a burden,” said Fahim Sultan Al Qasim, the Executive Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in the UAE. He expressed condolences to families affected by the Kiteezi landfill tragedy, where at least 35 lives were lost and significant property damaged. “Our thoughts are with those impacted by this tragic event, and we are committed to delivering the best technology and services for Uganda,” Fahim added.
The UAE investor pledged to work with Uganda in converting waste into valuable products, including electricity, fertilizers, fuel, and pavers, and expressed enthusiasm about making waste management commercially beneficial for the government. The Prime Minister, representing President Yoweri Museveni at the 3rd UAE–Uganda Business Forum, was accompanied by the State Minister for Regional Cooperation, John Mulimba, Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake Wanume Kibedi, and the Acting Executive Director of KCCA, Frank Nyakana Rusa.
Nabbanja emphasized that Uganda’s largely organic waste makes advanced technology solutions practical for efficient waste management. “Since most of our waste is organic, partnerships like these are critical in swiftly implementing our plans,” she stated.
KCCA’s Acting Executive Director, Frank Nyakana Rusa, noted that scientific insights recommend timely waste disposal to prevent methane buildup, which could lead to explosive situations. He confirmed that KCCA is decommissioning Kiteezi and relocating affected residents to safer areas. Before the close of 2024, the UAE investors are expected to begin waste-to-value projects in Uganda’s urban areas.
The Prime Minister further encouraged investors to explore ventures in food processing, noting Uganda’s agricultural richness and food abundance.
