Effectiveness of law on motor vehicle emissions in Uganda: case study of Kampala Capital City Authority

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of the law in checking pollution that arises from motor vehicle emissions in Uganda. It focuses on the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) as a case study. It provides an overview of the drivers of motor vehicle emission pollution and the social, environmental, and health impacts of uncontrolled motor vehicle emissions on the lives of the inhabitants of the city. The study identifies the polluter pays principle as a commonly accepted practice that could be applied to check on motor vehicle emissions in the country and urban establishments. In terms of the findings, the study reveals that vehicle emissions in Kampala pose a significant threat to human health since they exceed the World Health Organization’s air quality cut limit. Key drivers include high population, congestion, and poor fuel quality, contributing to global warming and depletion of the ozone layer, the development of health issues, disease, complications, and economic decline. The study further reveals that Uganda's legal and institutional framework on motor vehicle emissions is inadequate, lacking emission standards and specific offenses. As a contribution to addressing this problem, the study suggests implementing motor vehicle emission standards, legislation, penalties, inspections, road maintenance, fuel quality standards, congestion taxes, civic education, and gradually phasing out old vehicles to address air pollution from motor vehicle emissions. Enhancing institutional coordination is also crucial to prevent duplication of law enforcement roles and ensure institutions complement each other's strengths and weaknesses in enforcing emissions laws. Once these measures are undertaken, it is an affirmation of the study that air pollution resulting from motor vehicle emissions will be checked, and the health of Ugandans and air quality will be significantly improved