Uganda announces National Cleaning Day

By Hellen Namale

KAMPALA

The Government has declared the last Saturday of every month as National Cleaning Day. Addressing journalists alongside ministers at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kampala on Thursday, Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced that the initiative will be launched by H.E. Vice President Jessica Alupo on Saturday, 25 July 2026, in Kisenyi, Kampala.

The Prime Minister explained that the National Cleaning Day initiative was approved by Cabinet, chaired by H.E. President Yoweri Museveni, on 11 August 2025. She said the monthly cleaning exercise will take place from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., during which all Ugandans and other residents of Uganda are expected to participate in organised community cleaning activities.

“During this period, all Ugandans are expected to participate in organised community cleaning activities within their neighbourhoods, including cleaning homes, markets, schools, health facilities, places of worship, roads, drainage channels, and other public spaces,” the Premier said.

Over the three-hour cleaning period, unnecessary movement of people and vehicles will be prohibited. However, exemptions will be made for emergencies and essential services, including ambulances, fire and rescue services, and security operations.

“I urge all motorists, businesses, and members of the general public to plan accordingly,” Rt. Hon. Nabbanja added. “For three hours, let Uganda stop and clean. During this time, all businesses shall remain closed. I call upon leaders at all levels to lead by example and actively mobilise the population to participate in cleaning activities.”

The Government clarified, however, that the National Cleaning Day initiative does not replace the individual responsibility to maintain cleanliness on a daily basis.

“Rather, it provides a regular opportunity for collective action to address sanitation challenges and promote lasting behavioural change,” the press statement issued by the Prime Minister reads in part.

The statement further notes that participating in National Cleaning Day is a civic responsibility and urges everyone living in Uganda, especially Ugandans, to embrace the initiative.

“Fellow Ugandans, a clean Uganda cannot be achieved by Government alone; it requires the commitment of every citizen,” the Prime Minister said. “Let us embrace this initiative and make responsible waste management a lasting national culture. Together, let us build a cleaner, healthier, more productive, and prosperous Uganda.”

END