KCCA RELOCATES BIRDS AFFECTED BY JUNCTION IMPROVEMENT WORKS

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), has successfully relocated over 50 birds and their habitats to make way for the signalization of key traffic junctions.

Under the Project for improvement of Traffic Control in Kampala City, 27 junctions and five roundabouts across the city are to be upgraded. The initiative, aims to improve traffic flow and ease congestion.

The birds were on October 14, rescued along Jinja road where Esso Corner and King George’s Way junctions are being improved.

While these necessary infrastructural developments have led to the removal of some trees, KCCA remains committed to balancing urban expansion with environmental conservation.

Acknowledging concerns from city residents regarding the loss of green spaces, KCCA is working to mitigate the impact by planting over 10,000 new trees throughout the city.

This reforestation effort is part of the broader Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP), which includes the construction of over 70 kilometers of new roads to enhance connectivity and safety for all road users.

"Infrastructure development is essential for Kampala’s growth, but we cannot ignore the importance of preserving the environment that makes our city livable," Daniel NuweAbine, the KCCA Deputy Director of Public and Corporate Affairs said.

"Trees are crucial to purifying the air, providing shade, and combating climate change, and though some have been removed, we are committed to enhancing Kampala’s green spaces."

KCCA’s focus remains on maintaining Kampala’s urban green character, with plans to plant over 20,000 trees by 2025 as part of its Strategic Plan 2020/21-2024/25.

In addition to tree planting, KCCA is collaborating with partners to green public spaces such as parks and schools.

Kampala's urban forestry efforts have earned international recognition. In 2020, the city became the first in Africa to join the prestigious Tree Cities of the World program, further cementing its commitment to building a greener, more sustainable urban environment.

KCCA calls upon city residents and businesses to join its greening efforts by planting trees in their homes and communities.

"A city’s green character is not defined by infrastructure alone but by the collective efforts of its people," NuweAbine emphasized. "Together, we can ensure that as Kampala modernizes, it retains the lush greenery that defines its spirit."

With the dual focus on development and environmental conservation, KCCA continues to lay the groundwork for a modern city that thrives in harmony with nature.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer