Air Quality in Kampala, Uganda: A Review of the Causes of Low Air Quality and its Impacts

Air quality is a critical aspect of environmental health, directly impacting human well-being and ecosystem integrity. Currently, available data indicates that close to 99% of the global population is inhaling air that does not meet the required quality. Uganda is no exception to the global challenge of air pollution. The purpose of this review was to assess the current causes and impact of air pollution with a special focus on Kampala City, Uganda. Thus, the literature review explores the air quality situation in Uganda, examining the causes behind its low quality and the consequential impacts on public health and the environment. Drawing from a wide range of scholarly sources, this paper analyzes the various factors contributing to air pollution in Uganda. These include industrial activities, vehicular emissions, biomass burning and agricultural practices. Additionally, it discusses the health implications of poor air quality, such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems, as well as its environmental consequences, such as ecosystem degradation and climate change. By digesting existing recent research published from 2015 to 2024, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the air quality challenges faced by Uganda and to highlight potential strategies for mitigation and improvement.