Ban on ‘buveera’ must be enforced vigorously

Jun 13, 2009

On Thursday, finance minister Syda Bbumba, announced a total ban on polythene bags. After six months the importation, manufacture or use of polythene bags will become illegal.

On Thursday, finance minister Syda Bbumba, announced a total ban on polythene bags. After six months the importation, manufacture or use of polythene bags will become illegal.

The Government should be applauded for taking this bold move despite opposition from some who benefit from the plastic bags business. This is a hazardous material that litters the environment, degrades soil, blocks drains and endangers livestock. The ban is, therefore, long overdue.

However, it is not time to celebrate yet. There are many laws that largely go unimplemented. The thin plastic bags banned two years ago are still all over the place. The ban on smoking in public places is not being enforced. The same thing could easily happen to the total ban on plastic bags.

The National Environment Management Authority, Police, local government and all those involved with implementing environmental laws should take it seriously. Concurrently, the Government and stakeholders should build capacity for industrial and backyard production of alternatives such paper bags and hand-woven bags. There are already many examples of Ugandans who make paper bags at their homes or industries and sell to neighbourhood shops or even export to neighbouring countries. This should be promoted countrywide.

Efforts should also be made to clean the buveera that is already in the environment. Most importantly, there should be a massive awareness campaign so that all Ugandans can be at the forefront of fighting this menace.

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