KCCA builds 45 modern public toilets as part of Smart City

Kampala, (UG): Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has embarked on the construction of 45 state-of-the-art public toilets in Kampala City in a move aimed at addressing the problem of inadequate number of public toilets.

Members of Parliament and the public have been calling various authorities in Uganda to build more public toilets to serve the public. In many parts of the city, people are using roadsides and green areas to ease themselves.

On Friday, January 2, 2024, KCCA executive director Dorothy Kisaka, led a technical inspection of the sites to assess the progress of the ongoing construction works.

Kisaka visited construction sites at Kiswa Market, Namuwongo Market, and City Square. The visited sites and other six toilets in various schools have been completed and will be launched soon.

These toilets constructed in partnership with Kampala-Lake Victoria Sanitation Project (K-LVWATSAN), are aimed at enhancing sanitation and relieving pressure on existing facilities.

“These new toilets are constructed differently from the usual ones. Our goal is to ensure we build a hygienic city with facilities that guarantee good sanitation,” Kisaka said.

The K-LVWATSAN project has received support from partners such as Citywide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) and Uganda Breweries Ltd (UBL).

The multi-storey design of these toilets includes upper floors capable of accommodating businesses, such as restaurants and cafeterias. The lower floor will have bathrooms and toilets. Kisaka emphasised the importance of increasing the stock of these facilities to meet the growing demand, especially in the central business district where approximately 20 toilets are expected.

The strategically placed toilets will serve markets, schools, Police barracks, and the Central Business District.

KCCA has increased its efforts in enhancing sanitation in the city. Under the Sanitation for Millions project, 45 inclusive, gender-friendly, and climate-resilient toilet stances are being constructed along with an additional 53 toilets under the City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) program.

Furthermore, the Weyonje Subsidy program, initiated by KCCA, has seen success with over 3,500 households improving the quality of their toilets. This program has enhanced faecal sludge management in the city.

These projects are implemented under the Smart City initiative, spearheaded by KCCA, focusing on technology, infrastructure and people’s well-being. KCCA’s goal is to provide a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.