Kampala, Uganda – The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has ordered the immediate closure of a zero-grazing cattle project in Upper Kololo, Kampala, due to non-compliance with environmental regulations.
According to the NEMA Officials the farm, that housed ten Friesian cows since 2019, lacked necessary approvals and permits, posing significant environmental and health risks to nearby residents.
The officials also emphasized that the act is contrary to the National Environment (Air quality Standards) Regulations 2024 and the National Physical planning standards and guidelines of 2021.
Key Violations Leading to Closure:
– No Valid Permit: The farm operated without required permits, contravening national environment regulations.
-Poor Waste Management: Inadequate waste disposal systems led to environmental pollution.
-Noise Pollution: Cattle noise exceeded permissible limits for mixed residential areas.
-Air Pollution: Ammonia and methane emissions from dung piles posed health risks.
The farmer had previously transferred six cows to a farm in Iganga district following guidance from NEMA but continued non-compliance which led to the closure.
“As such the farm was immediately closed and the farmer required to strictly transfer all the remaining four (4) cows to the farm in Iganga and to clean, off and adequately manage all the gross Pollution caused by the cattle at the facility in accordance with Section 78 of the National Environment Act Cap 181” said NEMA Authorities in a press statement
NEMA says, the move highlights it’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting public health.
