Kampala, Uganda – A 26-year-old man from Katwe, a Kampala suburb, has been remanded after appearing in a viral video dumping garbage into a drainage channel during a heavy downpour. The accused, Ronald Katende, was filmed offloading waste from his three-wheeled vehicle, commonly referred to as a tuku-tuku, directly into a stormwater drain, sparking widespread outrage from the public, environmental activists, and city authorities.
Katende was arrested on April 7, 2025, and arraigned before the Kampala City Hall Court. He pleaded guilty to the charge of illegal waste disposal, a violation of the National Environment Act of Uganda.
Presiding over the case, Grade One Magistrate Edgar Karakire noted that while the offence carries a maximum fine of up to Shs11 million, the court considered Katende’s status as a first-time offender, his expression of remorse, and his personal circumstances—including a pregnant partner and a young child. The magistrate accordingly imposed a fine of Shs500,000.
However, the court issued a stern warning that failure to pay the fine would result in four months’ imprisonment.
Despite acknowledging his wrongdoing, Katende lamented that the fine was too high for his financial situation. The court, however, declined to revise the penalty.
The incident comes amid ongoing efforts by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to combat environmental degradation and urban flooding, which is often exacerbated by illegal garbage disposal and blockage of drainage systems. Katende’s case has become symbolic of the city’s wider struggle to enforce urban sanitation laws and promote civic responsibility among residents.
In the same court session, 40 other individuals were each fined Shs150,000 for walking on green belts—designated grassy areas along roadways intended for environmental preservation. Authorities described the offences as part of a growing pattern of disregard for public spaces and environmental laws.
KCCA officials have reiterated their commitment to enforcing the law and maintaining cleanliness in the capital, warning that more crackdowns are expected in the coming months.
Environmental advocacy groups praised the court’s decision but urged the government to increase public awareness and invest in sustainable waste management systems.
“This case should be a wake-up call for all city residents,” one activist said. “We cannot afford to let a few irresponsible actions sabotage the city’s drainage infrastructure and put thousands at risk of flooding.”
Authorities have called on citizens to dispose of waste responsibly and report any illegal dumping to relevant agencies.
