The Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Serverus Jjumba, has called on the public to prioritize cleanliness and environmental protection, emphasizing that proper hygiene can significantly reduce household spending on preventable diseases.
The message was delivered by his representative, Msgr. Dr. Dominic Ssengooba, during the environmental community service (Bulungi Bwansi) activity held at Kitovu Hospital. The exercise formed part of preparations for International Workers’ Day 2026.
During the activity, professionals from various sectors cleaned water channels and collected heaps of garbage from trading centres surrounding the hospital.
They also planted over 100 pine trees on a two-acre piece of land designated by the Bishop near the Kitovu Sports Arena.
Msgr. Ssengooba stressed that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility, urging individuals to uphold personal hygiene and protect their surroundings.
He further called on business owners operating near the hospital to keep their premises clean to ensure a safe and healthy environment for patients seeking treatment.
However, concerns were raised by Kitovu Local Council Chairman, Joseph Lubega Bikwalira, over poor waste disposal practices, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of used diapers.
He warned that such habits pose serious health risks, especially during the rainy season when waste can easily spread infections.
Lubega urged the government to take drastic measures, including banning diaper manufacturing companies, arguing that the products are becoming a growing environmental threat.
He also criticized Masaka City authorities for failing to provide adequate garbage collection tools and bins, despite enforcing tax compliance among business owners.
Fr. Michael Kamulegeya, chaplain of the Association of Catholic Professionals in Masaka Diocese, called on professionals to lead by example.
He encouraged students in higher institutions to emulate responsible behavior by maintaining cleanliness in their workspaces and daily lives, guided by Christian values.
The Chairperson of ASSOCAP, John Paul Mugwanya, noted that the association marks May 1st annually with Professionals’ Day activities, including community service, free medical camps, and spiritual retreats.
He said the initiatives are intended to help professionals reflect on their relationship with God and their work, inspired by Saint Joseph the Worker.
Rose Nakyejjwe, Masaka District Environment Officer and head of environment for ASSOCAP, warned that natural forests in the area are rapidly disappearing due to charcoal burning and firewood harvesting.
She cautioned against the increasing replacement of indigenous trees with eucalyptus, describing it as harmful to the ecosystem.
Nakyejjwe urged residents to plant at least one tree or any form of vegetation, noting that plants play a crucial role in improving air quality and safeguarding human health.
She also faulted the National Forestry Authority for permitting the clearance of natural forests in favor of commercial plantations.
Meanwhile, Masaka City Health Inspector Musa Mabeeri commended the diocese for spearheading efforts to combat poor sanitation.
He advised parents to adopt better methods of disposing of used diapers, such as drying and burning them separately, instead of mixing them with organic waste, which complicates garbage management.
The initiative brought together environmentalists, journalists, health workers, lawyers, engineers, auditors, and social workers, highlighting the growing role of collective action in promoting public health and environmental sustainability in Masaka.
