The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Uganda launched the Air Quality Awareness Week running from 6th to 10th May. The event aims to raise awareness and address the significant challenge of air pollution in the city. The theme for this year’s awareness week is “KNOWING YOUR AIR” emphasizing the importance of understanding air quality issues.
During the launch, NEMA’s Executive Director, Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, announced that the government would introduce air quality standards for the country. These standards will target major sources of pollution such as motor vehicles, industries, and biomass waste management. Etc.
He noted that Air pollution poses severe health risks, with approximately 31,000 people in Uganda losing their lives annually due to related health complications.
NEMA, in collaboration with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and AirQo, is leading the efforts to combat air pollution. The Air Quality Awareness Week aims to educate the public about the causes of poor air quality and empower them to make positive changes in their communities like proper waste disposal, avoiding burning, and adopting sustainable practices are highlighted as effective ways to reduce pollution.
Globally, air pollution leads to the loss of approximately 6 million lives each year therefore by raising awareness and taking collective action, Uganda can contribute to preventing further loss and improving the well-being of its citizens. Details Follow: NEMA
