The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has shut down a small-scale zero-grazing cattle project in Kololo, Kampala for violating multiple environmental regulations.
The facility located on Plot 9, Elgon Terrace had been operating since 2019 and was home to ten Friesian cows. NEMA’s decision follows persistent complaints from residents and an inspection revealing severe environmental hazards.
According to NEMA’s press release, “This act is contrary to the National Environment (Air Quality Standards) Regulations, 2024, and the National Physical Planning Standards and Guidelines of 2011.”
The farmer was advised in early 2024 to relocate the cows to Iganga District, successfully transferring six animals. However, complaints continued prompting a thorough inspection involving the Environment Protection Force (EPF).
The inspection identified that the farm had no relevant approvals such as a valid permit to operate within a residential area.
NEMA noted inadequate waste disposal practices, contravening the National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations, 2020 hindered the area.
“The cows generated noise levels of 85 dB, surpassing the 55-dB limit for mixed residential zones, breaching the National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations, 2003. A strong ammonia odor and methane emissions from dung piles were recorded, violating the National Environment (Air Quality Standards) Regulations, 2024,” NEMA added.
NEMA further emphasized the need to protect Kampala’s residential areas from industrial and agricultural pollutants. “The farm was immediately closed,” NEMA stated, with a directive for the farmer to transfer the remaining four cows to Iganga and clean up the environmental damage in accordance with Section 78 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181.
NEMA also reminded developers and residents that under Section 39 of Uganda’s constitution, all Ugandans have the right to a healthy and clean environment.
Section 78 of the National Environment Act prohibits any activity that causes pollution, stressing that a person shall not cause pollution or initiate anything that may occasion a risk of pollution except in accordance with this act and any other applicable law.
In addition, Kampala’s local ordinances restrict livestock farming within city boundaries without proper permits.
