The Government has officially launched the National Cleaning Day initiative, calling on all Ugandans to take an active role in keeping their homes and communities clean. Leaders say poor sanitation, plastic pollution and rapid urbanisation continue to fuel preventable diseases, making the monthly clean-up exercise a national priority.

Hundreds of Ugandans joined government leaders and development partners at the launch of the National Cleaning Day initiative, which will be observed every last Saturday of the month.

According to Minister of State for Environment, Hon Beatrice Atim Anywar, the campaign aims to improve sanitation, promote proper waste management and encourage collective responsibility in keeping the country clean.

She said rapid urbanisation and increasing plastic pollution require Ugandans to adopt better environmental stewardship, adding that the National Cleaning Day initiative provides an opportunity to achieve this.

Former Minister of Health and the current Government Chief Whip, Hon. Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, commended the Vice President, the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health for championing the National Cleaning Day programme.

Minister of Health Dr Chris Baryomunsi said up to 75% of diseases affecting Ugandans are preventable, with many linked to poor hygiene and sanitation. He urged citizens to actively participate in the monthly clean-up exercise.

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Who spared headed the move, said preparations for the initiative took nearly one year and involved several ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Local Government and KCCA.

She emphasised that a clean Uganda is everyone's responsibility before outlining the implementation guidelines.

Representing the President of Uganda, the Vice President Maj. (RTD) Jessica Alupo launched the initiative.

VP Alupo thanked Ugandans for supporting the initiative, saying disease prevention begins with proper hygiene, sanitation, immunisation, nutrition and regular exercise. She warned that poor disposal of plastic waste contributes to flooding and increases the spread of diseases such as dysentery.

The Vice President urged Ugandans to embrace the monthly clean-up exercise and also reminded eligible voters to participate in the upcoming Local Council Chairperson elections.

Government says the success of the National Cleaning Day initiative will depend on the active participation of every Ugandan, with the monthly exercise expected to improve sanitation, protect the environment and reduce the burden of preventable diseases across the country.