Tarehe Sita: UPDF Cleans Bukomansimbi Town Councils

Soldiers removed heaps of garbage from Kigangazi, Butenga, Bukomansimbi, and Kagologolo town councils, leaving residents both surprised and appreciative of the army’s gesture.

In an effort to give back to the community ahead of the 44th Tarehe Sita anniversary, the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has undertaken a large-scale cleanup operation across four town councils in Bukomansimbi District.

Soldiers removed heaps of garbage from Kigangazi, Butenga, Bukomansimbi, and Kagologolo town councils, leaving residents both surprised and appreciative of the army’s gesture.

"This UPDF is really different, and we thank President Museveni, who has transformed the army into one that serves the people. In the 1980s, men in uniform were feared, but now they are working for the good of the community," said Ssalongo Desire Kagimu, a resident of Kigangazi.

The initiative, part of the army’s civil-military cooperation, saw soldiers sweeping streets and clearing garbage dumps in areas that had long struggled with waste management.

Kigangazi town council, considered one of the dirtiest in Bukomansimbi, particularly benefited from the exercise.

However, residents pointed out the need for a designated dumping site and a regular garbage collection service to sustain cleanliness beyond the celebrations.

Mayor Yasin Kawuma urged locals to take personal responsibility for their environment.

"The UPDF has done a great job, but it is our responsibility to maintain cleanliness in our town. I encourage everyone to be vigilant and report anyone dumping garbage irresponsibly," he said.

Residents called on the government to provide long-term waste management solutions, including the establishment of a designated garbage site, regular waste collection, and community education programs on proper disposal and recycling.

Some suggested that with the right training, waste could be turned into manure, bricks, and other useful products to improve livelihoods.

The cleanup exercise comes as part of a broader UPDF initiative ahead of Tarehe Sita, commemorating the army’s first armed operation in 1981, which led to the liberation struggle that brought the current government into power.

Over the years, the UPDF has increasingly engaged in community service projects, including school and health facility construction, medical camps, and environmental conservation efforts.

Residents of Bukomansimbi now hope the cleanup will spark long-term solutions to the district’s waste management challenges, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment even after the Tarehe Sita celebrations conclude.