Uganda Baati has hosted the national launch of National Cleaning Day for manufacturers, with government and private sector leaders urging Ugandans to take personal responsibility for keeping their homes, workplaces and communities clean.
The event was officiated by the Minister of State for Industry, David Bahati, and attended by the Executive Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), Dr. Ezra Rubanda, Uganda Baati management and staff, as well as representatives from neighbouring organisations.
Speaking at the event, Minister Bahati said National Cleaning Day was introduced to encourage every Ugandan to take an active role in protecting the environment.
“A clean environment does not belong to one group, one sector or one community. It is a shared responsibility that unites us all,” Bahati said.
He said the initiative aims to promote patriotism and a sense of responsibility by encouraging Ugandans to keep their surroundings clean. He commended Uganda Baati for setting an example through its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Bahati noted that manufacturers have a critical role to play in creating cleaner and safer communities through responsible production practices and environmental conservation efforts.
Dr. Rubanda said Uganda Baati was a fitting venue for the manufacturers’ launch because of the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.
“The decision to hold the National Cleaning Day launch for manufacturers here reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability, responsibility and high standards within the manufacturing sector,” Rubanda said.
He added that businesses should not only be judged by the products they make but also by the positive impact they create in the communities where they operate.
Uganda Baati Chief Executive Officer George Arodi said environmental responsibility has been part of the company’s culture for many years.
“National Cleaning Day reminds us that a clean Uganda is everyone’s responsibility. It cannot be left to local authorities or cleaning teams alone. Every one of us has a role to play in how we dispose of waste and how we look after the places where we live and work,” Arodi said.
Arodi said Uganda Baati has been implementing its monthly Bulungi Bwansi clean-up programme since 2018, through which employees dedicate time to cleaning areas around the company’s operations.
“Our support for National Cleaning Day is a continuation of what we have been doing over the years. We believe that responsible businesses should contribute to building cleaner, healthier communities,” he said.
The launch concluded with a clean-up exercise involving government officials, UMA representatives and Uganda Baati employees, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in promoting environmental conservation.
The event marked another milestone in efforts to encourage individuals, businesses and institutions across the country to make cleanliness part of their daily responsibilities.
Government this week declared the last Saturday of every month as National Cleaning Day. The initiative was approved by Cabinet, chaired by President Yoweri Museveni, on August 11, 2025.
The monthly cleaning exercise will take place from 7:00am to 10:00am, during which all Ugandans and other residents of Uganda are expected to participate in organised community cleaning activities.
