The free garbage collection services provided by Forward Cleaners Company Limited in Kisoro Municipality have come to an end, with payment for garbage collection now officially required under the Polluter Pays Principle (PPP).
Forward Cleaners, under the slogan “Generations to Come,” has been operating since July 1, 2026, offering garbage collection services to businesses, homes, schools, markets and recreational places. The three-month free service has now come to an end in September.
The company operates a 17-ton-capacity truck, also known as the Big Yellow Truck, and employs a 12-member team serving in various capacities, including administration, finance and garbage collection. Gender sensitivity and mental wellness are also integral components of the company’s day-to-day activities.
The policy is enforced through Local Council ordinances and is overseen by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), in addition to relevant provisions under the Physical Planning Act, the Public Health Act and the Constitution of Uganda.
After three months of free services aimed at building trust with garbage generators, every resident and business owner within Kisoro Municipality will now be required to pay a monthly garbage collection fee, with the minimum fee starting at 3,000 shillings.
Those who fail to comply may face enforcement measures, including closure of businesses, denial of licences, arrest and prosecution, in accordance with applicable laws.
During a press conference held on Thursday at the Forward Investments offices in the former Central Division offices in Kisoro Municipality, Forward Investments Operations Manager Nabaasa Rebecca said the last three months of free garbage collection services were intended to build trust with the public.
Nabaasa said the payments will vary depending on the category of waste generator, including residents, shops, hotels, schools and others. She called for public cooperation and thanked those who have already complied with the new payment arrangement, saying the activity is progressing smoothly.
Forward Investments Field Officer Gahima Alex acknowledged the ongoing activity and appreciated garbage generators in the community who have embraced the Polluter Pays Principle.
He encouraged those who have not yet made their payments to cooperate with the current arrangement.
Gahima said the fees will help the company meet its operational costs, including paying workers, purchasing fuel and maintaining the garbage collection vehicle.
Gahima also said it is important to note that Forward Investments, through its subsidiary, Forward Cleaners, is the official solid waste collector in the entire municipality and is responsible for the collection and transportation of garbage in Kisoro Municipality.
Kisoro Municipality Health Inspector Acar Moses said the Polluter Pays Principle is a national policy and is not limited to Kisoro.
Acar said the goal of implementing the policy is to help make Kisoro Municipality cleaner and more sustainable. He urged the public to embrace the reuse, recycling and repurposing of waste.
Acar also warned that stringent measures could be taken against those who fail to comply, including prosecution, denial of licences and closure of businesses.
Meanwhile, Scovia Birungi Jane, the Health Officer for Central Division, said Forward Cleaners would not leave any garbage uncollected and would continue collecting waste generated within the municipality.
She said everyone is required to pay the monthly garbage collection fee to enable Forward Investments to continue operating and delivering services effectively.
Birungi commended Forward Investments for the work it is doing and confirmed that the municipality is yet to start issuing demand notices to people who are reluctant or have refused to pay.
