environment 10 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kampala's Trash: An Untapped Resource for Youth Innovation
Experts are highlighting Kampala's significant waste generation as a prime opportunity for young entrepreneurs to create businesses and sustainable solutions. The city produces thousands of tonnes of waste daily, much of which is organic material that could be transformed into valuable products. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kampala-s-waste-to-wealth-opportunity-5591250
Kampala is facing a mounting waste problem, with the city generating an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 tonnes of solid waste daily. However, experts believe this challenge presents a significant opportunity for youth-led innovation, turning what is currently a burden into a source of wealth and employment.
According to Kenneth Tumusiime, managing director of Plawaste Consult Limited, a substantial portion of the city’s waste originates from organic agricultural produce brought in from rural areas. This practice not only contributes to the waste problem but also deprives farmers of valuable materials that could be returned to their land as fertilizer. Tumusiime emphasizes that “Waste is not waste. Waste can be turned into wealth.” He urges young people to develop innovative solutions for reducing the transport of farm waste to the city and for processing it into marketable products.
Potential business avenues identified include creating packaging materials, producing bioenergy and biofuels, and manufacturing compost and biochar. Biological processes like digestion and fermentation can also convert organic waste into valuable resources. Furthermore, solutions are needed for waste generated during livestock production and transportation. Processing agricultural produce and livestock closer to their source could create local business opportunities and significantly reduce the volume of waste entering Kampala.
The Kampala Youth Innovation Challenge aims to support young innovators aged 16 to 35 with ideas and prototypes for waste management. Vice President Jessica Alupo has called for increased investment in these young entrepreneurs, stressing that government efforts alone are insufficient. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide mentorship, financing, technical expertise, and market access to help transform innovative ideas into viable enterprises.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)