By Vincent Emong
SOROTI — Soroti City Council has announced plans to enforce stricter environmental laws starting July 2026, targeting stray animals and poor waste management in a bid to restore order and cleanliness within the city.
The Assistant Town Clerk of Soroti City, Badru Ochengel, confirmed that authorities are ready to take firm action against individuals who allow their animals to roam freely, describing the practice as a major contributor to environmental degradation and public nuisance.
“We know some individuals responsible for this, and they have continued to ignore guidelines,” Ochengel said. “The law is clear—if you keep animals in the city, it must be under zero grazing. This must be respected.”
He warned that beginning in July, the city will strictly enforce environmental regulations, including penalties for those found violating the rules.
Ochengel also revealed new measures to tackle poor waste management, particularly around the main market, where garbage disposal has been a persistent challenge.
As part of the strategy, the city plans to recruit “city scouts” to monitor cleanliness and enforce compliance. The initiative is modeled after systems used in cities like Gulu and Mbale, where boda boda riders have been engaged to help enforce environmental standards in exchange for commissions from fines issued to offenders.
“We are adopting this system here in Soroti starting July 1st,” Ochengel said. “Anyone caught dumping garbage irresponsibly will be arrested with the help of these scouts, and the law will take its course.”
In addition, the council plans to introduce new requirements for businesses, institutions, and residents to have proper waste management systems in place.
He noted that having dustbins—especially for separating different types of waste—will soon become a mandatory requirement for obtaining or renewing an operating license.
“You cannot operate without proper waste management,” Ochengel emphasized. “Dustbins will be part of the basic requirements.”
City authorities say the new measures are aimed at improving sanitation, protecting the environment, and enhancing public health.
Residents have been urged to comply with the regulations ahead of the enforcement date to avoid penalties, as the city moves to create a cleaner, safer, and more organized urban environment.
