The Ugandan government has entered into a partnership with Ghana’s Jospong Group of Companies (JGC) to tackle the country’s waste management issues.

The deal starts with the decommissioning of the 39-acre Kiteezi Landfill in Wakiso District, near Kampala.

This landfill will be transformed into an ecological recreational facility.

JGC also plans to invest in integrated composting and recycling systems, as well as transfer stations to provide comprehensive waste treatment and disposal solutions, enhancing environmental sanitation in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.

These efforts will result in the production of organic compost for agriculture and horticulture, while recovered plastics will be used as raw materials for a new bin manufacturing facility.

The initiative is expected to create over 2,000 direct jobs for Ugandans.

This collaboration follows a tragic waste slide on August 10, 2024, which caused 23 fatalities and extensive property damage.

Jospong Group, known for its experience across Africa and Asia, is well-suited to handle this project. With numerous subsidiaries and a diverse portfolio, the company is equipped to manage waste efficiently and promote sustainability.

The project handover ceremony, held recently, was attended by notable figures, including Uganda’s Minister for Kampala, Joseph Kyofatogabye, and JGC’s Executive Chairman, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong.

Minister Kyofatogabye noted that the partnership was approved by the cabinet and described it as a key step toward addressing Uganda’s waste management challenges while promoting eco-friendly practices.

“We will significantly reduce the height of the current waste mass, stabilise the slopes, and cap it, transforming the landscape of the Kiteezi community,” he stated.

He further explained that the plan involves reducing the slope gradient and capping it, adding that after thorough evaluation, the central government chose Jospong Group for their resources, expertise, and cost-effective, practical solutions.

“I can no longer tolerate all this garbage,” the Minister expressed, lamenting the situation.

He assured that residents living within a 200-meter radius of the landfill would receive government compensation.

Dr Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of JGC, welcomed the project with optimism, highlighting his company’s 25 years of experience in waste management.

“We have extensive experience, operating 16 plants in Ghana and constructing an additional 38 facilities for medical and other waste,” he stated.

Dr. Agyepong shared that he had personally visited Uganda to study their waste management systems and had incorporated several innovative approaches to address the challenges.

He also assured that JGC is committed to recovering compost, which will be handed over to the Ugandan government.

Dr Agyepong stated that with Uganda’s municipal solid waste consisting of 80% organic material, the country has a unique opportunity to convert waste into organic fertilizers, thereby capitalising on this valuable resource.