Residents of Mutungo, Uganda, gathered at Kiduuka Grounds on November 3, 2026, to discuss challenges affecting their households and the delivery of essential services. The meeting, attended by community leaders and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) representatives, focused on affordable waste management, property taxation, security, and community participation in local governance. The discussions aimed to address the rising cost of garbage collection and KCCA property rates, which have become a burden on households. Residents called for practical interventions to ease the financial burden and improve transparency in public services.
The cost of garbage collection by De Waste Company was a dominant issue, with residents expressing dissatisfaction with the charges, arguing they are unaffordable, particularly for low-income households. A proposed arrangement by the KCCA Executive Director suggested residents pay Shs1,000 for every 50 kilogrammes of garbage delivered to a collection truck. However, residents noted that this arrangement was never fully implemented, leaving households struggling with excessive collection charges of up to Shs20,000 or more. Additional costs associated with garbage collection sacks and transportation contribute to the higher charges.
Participants argued that the current arrangements appear more affordable to wealthier communities than to low-income neighborhoods, calling for a review of the collection model to ensure every household can access proper waste disposal services. The community urged De Waste Company to engage residents directly, negotiate affordable charges, and intensify sensitization on its collection arrangements. Residents were encouraged to separate and sort domestic waste to reduce the volume of garbage requiring transportation and disposal. The meeting emphasized maintaining KCCA garbage trucks within communities, noting the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) had supported the procurement of four KCCA garbage trucks.
KCCA property rates and assessments by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) also attracted considerable attention. Residents expressed concern over the manner in which property rates assessments and notices were being handled, questioning the processes through which property values are determined and communicated to taxpayers. URA officials were reportedly taking property measurements in the area during the meeting. Residents called for greater coordination between KCCA, URA, and community representatives to ensure property owners receive adequate information and understand the implications of the assessment and taxation processes.
Residents appealed to the relevant authorities to consider waiving accumulated penalties, including those arising during the COVID-19 period, arguing that such relief would ease the burden on affected property owners. The meeting proposed digitizing property rates payments, including introducing Mobile Money and other convenient electronic payment channels to improve accessibility, transparency, and accountability. In a position communicated by the Lord Mayor, residents were reminded of an earlier assurance that the property rates matter, including the officials responsible for issuing KCCA notices, would not be brought back to communities until a concrete resolution and clear way forward had been established.
The Mayor of Nakawa, Nubian Lee, emphasized that 75 percent of the revenue collected should be returned to the community, a position residents want followed up to ensure that revenue generated from their area translates into visible improvements in local services and infrastructure. KCCA Revenue Officer in charge, Mr. Julius Muwulya, thanked residents for their cooperation and contribution towards the payment of property rates. Muwulya urged residents to familiarize themselves with the procedures governing property rates and advised them to direct their complaints and inquiries to the appropriate offices.
During the engagement, Ms. Barbra and Mr. James Mwesigwa offered to assist residents who visit the Nakawa KCCA Revenue Office seeking guidance on property documentation and related matters. Residents were advised to carry an LC letter clearly confirming their residence in the property concerned, a photocopy of their National Identity Card, and a sworn affidavit. The meeting provided a platform for residents to express their concerns and engage with KCCA representatives, aiming to find solutions to the challenges affecting their community.
Key points
- Residents of Mutungo urge De Waste Company to negotiate affordable garbage collection charges and intensify sensitization on its collection arrangements.
- The community calls for a review of the garbage collection model to ensure every household can access proper waste disposal services.
- Residents appeal to authorities to consider waiving accumulated penalties, including those arising during the COVID-19 period, to ease the burden on affected property owners.
