VENDORS IN BUKOTO MARKET WELCOME NEW SANITATION FACILITY

Vendors in Bukoto Market in Nakawa division have celebrated the inauguration of a new sanitation facility, on July 19, marking a significant milestone in their daily lives. The facility, built through a partnership between the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Uganda Breweries, aims at improving hygiene and sanitation standards for the market's 323 vendors and the neighboring community.

The newly opened 8-stance waterborne public toilet block includes two bathrooms and two stances for Persons With Disabilities (PWD), four for women and two for men alongside a rainwater harvesting tank to support sustainable water use.

This development has drastically improved the latrine ratio in Bukoto Market to 1:60, compared to the citywide average of 1:300 and the recommended ratio of 1:100.

Dorothy Kisaka, the KCCA Executive Director, commended the support from UBL and highlighted the project's importance, stating, “Sanitation is a fundamental human right, and it is our responsibility as a city authority to ensure that all residents and traders have access to clean and safe sanitation facilities.

This facility is a significant step towards achieving that goal and aligns perfectly with our Smart City agenda, founded on the pillars of Technology, Infrastructure, and People’s well-being.”

The new toilet block is designed to alleviate pressure on existing infrastructure and enhance overall hygiene standards.

“Improved sanitation directly impacts the health, dignity, and quality of life of our citizens, reducing the prevalence of sanitation-related diseases and creating a healthier, more livable city. This feeds into the People Wellbeing pillar of the smart City agenda.” Kisaka said.

The NRM government's manifesto for 2021-2026 emphasizes investment in sanitation infrastructure development through public funding and partnerships. This includes the construction of sanitation facilities along highways, as well as in institutions such as schools, health centers, markets, and other public spaces.

These efforts are aimed at enhancing service delivery and promoting socio-economic development across the country.

Andrew Kilonzo, the Managing Director of Uganda Breweries, emphasized the company's commitment to community support through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

“We understand the value of water and sanitation and the crucial role improving hygiene standards, and ensuring a healthier environment for all. That is why we decided to partner with KCCA on this vital project,” Kilonzo said.

Paul Mugambe, Mayor of Nakawa Division, praised the project’s impact on the community, especially the women who constitute the majority of vendors at Bukoto Market.

“This market has historically transformed many households. The new sanitation facility is a significant contribution, creating wealth by reducing waterborne diseases and attracting more customers to the market,” Mugambe noted.

Dr. Daniel Okello, Director of Public Health and Environment at KCCA, reiterated the authority's long-term commitment to sanitation. “We have built several similar facilities in areas like Portbell and Kinawataka. From 2021, our goal has been to construct 103 toilets across schools, health facilities, markets, universities, and police barracks. This new toilet in Bukoto Market is a part of that ongoing effort,” Dr. Okello explained.

Jackie Kakwezi, Chairperson of Bukoto Market Women Vendors, expressed gratitude for the new facility.

“Today, I am very happy. This is the day we have been yearning for. Our previous toilet was inadequate and frequently full. The new facility, with more stances and a shower, will greatly improve our daily lives,” Kakwezi said.

The new sanitation facility at Bukoto Market is free of charge and is expected to significantly enhance the hygiene and well-being of its users.