At the inaugural Bell Lager ObaFest held on October 22, 2023, at Jahazi Pier Munyonyo, a remarkable step towards environmentally sustainable social events in Uganda was taken. Over 83% of the 1.6 tonnes of waste generated during the festival was successfully recycled, underscoring a shift towards greener practices in event management.
A total of 1,666.30 kilograms (1.6 tonnes) of waste was collected during ObaFest, with 1,379.30 kilograms (1.3 tonnes) or 82.7% of it being recycled, while the remaining 17.22% (287 kilograms) was categorized as residue or non-recyclable waste and disposed of in the designated Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) landfill. This initiative is especially crucial given the growing concerns about waste management in Kampala.
Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, grapples with a significant waste management challenge. Dr. Akankwasa Barirega, the Executive Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), revealed that Kampala generates a staggering 150 tonnes of waste daily, with only 40% of the plastic waste produced in urban areas being collected. The uncollected waste not only contributes to pollution in water bodies but also affects soil fertility, agricultural productivity, and drainage systems, causing flooding.
The effort made by Bell Lager at ObaFest demonstrates a commitment to reducing the festival’s environmental impact and fostering a more responsible festival experience. Grace Amme, the Bell Lager brand manager, emphasized that ObaFest represented the brand’s dedication to addressing community challenges sustainably, focusing on the responsible collection and disposal of waste generated during the festival.
This eco-conscious approach aligns with global trends where music and outdoor festivals, including well-known events such as the Glastonbury Festival, Burning Man, and the Global Citizen Festival, are adopting green practices. Even global touring artists are getting on board, as exemplified by British rock band Coldplay, which recently disclosed a 47% reduction in Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions during their Music of the Spheres World Tour compared to their previous stadium tour in 2016-2017.
Bell Lager’s initiative at ObaFest contributes to a larger movement in the entertainment industry, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility as integral components of modern festivals and events.
