Characterization of peri-urban anthropogenic pollution in Kampala, Uganda

Effective improvement of the current poor environmental sanitation in peri-urban Kampala requires an understanding of pollutant characteristics (types, sources, locations and loads). As part of an on going study, this paper presents pollution characteristics in Bwaise III and challenges encountered during the period 2002-3. Findings show that pit latrines are a major source of pollution as far as pathogenic bacteria and nutrients are concerned (14.5E20 cfu TTC /yr, 41,775kgN/yr and 6,680KgP/yr). Drains on the other hand, though they have lower levels of nutrients (980kgTKN/yr and 80kgP/yr for sullage) are recipients of runoff, solid waste and faecal matter and hence a major problem in the area especially during the rains. The impact of these on the environment and community health are mutually reinforcing. Challenges encountered during the study have been overcome largely by dialogue. Management strategies and mitigation measures for these areas require the collective participation of communities, authorities and policy makers.