Abstract

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.