Assessing the effects of urbanization on the environment : a case study of Makindye Division Kampala Uganda

Abstract

This study was carried. out.to identify the effects or urbanization on the environment in. Kampala district taking Makindye division as a case study. It mainly focused on the effects of urbanization on land resources. The study used both primary and secondary data which was collected through four data collection methods that is: questionnaire; interview, observation and documentary analysis. Both probability-and non-probability sampling techniques were used to come up with the sample of 68 respondents, Excel 2010 and SPSS were used to analyse, the data that Was collected. The results about the causes of urbanization in the area indicated that the major cause or factor leading to development of the area was infrastructural development. The results about, the effects of urbanization the environment Indicated that the major effect of urbanization on' the environment in the 'area was the increased solid waste, problem. The. results about the possible solutions. In addressing the effects of urbanization on the environment indicated that-the major policies put, in place, to 'manage the environment from the effects of urbanization were garbage collection and monitoring and the major measures that were suggested by the respondents were planting trees-and garbage collection, it was concluded. that more still needs to be done to protect the environment of Kampala from the increasing effects of urbanization. This could be through improved solid waste-management practices, proper urban planning, planting trees along various points in the, area' and intensifying the carrying out of Environmental. Impact Assessment for the different development projects before they are, carried out. This would enable the achievement of sustainable development where we are able to obtain development while at the: same time protecting the environment from being. Harmed by the developments. Thus. Ensuring that people in urban areas are able to enjoy the benefits of urbanization or development in the form of increased employment opportunities, improved service delivery, improved. Standards of living as' well as putting the urban space to efficient, use while at the same-time be able to obtain the services provided by the environment such as climate regulation and water purification among others.