Health 31 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Tackling Indoor Air Pollution in Kampala Homes
Household cooking with charcoal and firewood is fueling a major health crisis in Kampala, contributing to thousands of deaths from smoke-related illnesses. Experts urge families to adopt cleaner fuels, better ventilation, and stop waste burning to safeguard health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/homes-and-property/fighting-household-pollution-in-kampala-5409256
In bustling Kampala suburbs like Kyebando and Bweyogerere, evening routines often involve lighting charcoal stoves or firewood grills for cooking fish or goat meat. Thick smoke fills the air, drawing customers while children play nearby and adults cough, yet the hidden health risks go largely unnoticed.
Public health consultant Dr. Alex Ndyabakira from KCCA highlights air pollution as a top global killer, with domestic fuels like charcoal major culprits in Kampala alongside traffic and industry. Globally, 99% of people face unsafe pollution levels, and locally, it has caused over 7,000 deaths recently, rivaling risks from poor diets and smoking.
Despite pushes for cleaner energy, a Twaweza survey shows 92% of rural homes use firewood, 46% of urban ones do, and 78% of Kampala households rely on charcoal. Only 5% have gas or electric stoves. Charcoal smoke releases toxic carbon monoxide, raising risks of respiratory issues, heart disease, and cancer, says Dr. Richard Kimuli.
KCCA partners with Makerere’s Airqo to install citywide air quality monitors, pinpointing hotspots for swift action. Raja Wabinyai praises the effort for enabling data-driven improvements in air quality and public health.
Dr. Sarah Zawedde, KCCA’s Public Health Director, stresses home-based changes: switch to gas, electric, or efficient biomass stoves; ventilate kitchens with open windows or fans; avoid burning waste; and maintain vehicles to cut emissions.
These simple steps can transform homes into healthier spaces and combat Kampala’s pollution crisis.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)