FORMULATION OF URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: A CASE STUDY OF KAMPALA, UGANDA

ABSTRACT It is estimated that 60% of the Gross National product in developing countries is generated by cities. However, many of these cities have fundamental obstacles that need to be overcome if they are to be more productive. One of the most visible problem in an African city is its deteriorated environmental condition. While this poses a critical health hazard to the populace, it is also a key factor that hinders economic growth and development. In this paper, it is argued that a complex set of factors such as the unparalleled rate of urban expansion, high population growth rates and high incidents of poverty have all contributed to the less than desired environmental condition of most African cities. It is further argued that there are other fundamental issues that underlie the unhealthy urban environment. These include the lack of public awareness, an inappropriate policy framework, inadequate political commitment, insufficient investments in infrastructure, and the lack of capacities within the gov...