Applying for a waste handling licence in Uganda involves following specific procedures set forth by NEMA which regulates waste management activities in the country. Here’s a general outline of the steps you would typically take to apply for a waste handling licence in Uganda:

Contact NEMA: Begin by contacting NEMA to inquire about the requirements and procedures for obtaining a waste handling licence. You can visit NEMA head office on Jinja Road in Kampala, or the regional offices in Lira, Mbale, Hoima and Mbarara or check the Authority’s website (www.nema.go.ug) for relevant information and application forms.

Review Requirements: Obtain detailed information on the requirements for obtaining a waste handling licence. This may include criteria related to the type of waste to be handled, the proposed methods of waste management, facility design and infrastructure, environmental impact assessments, and compliance with applicable regulations.

Prepare Documentation: Gather all the necessary documentation and information required for the licence application. These may include:

• Business registration documents
• Site plans and facility layout drawings
• Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report, if applicable
• Waste management plan outlining how waste will be collected, transported, treated, and disposed of
• Health and safety procedures
• Proof of compliance with relevant environmental regulations and standards

Complete Application Form: Fill out the waste handling license application form provided by NEMA. Provide accurate and complete information, ensuring that all required fields are properly filled out.

Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to NEMA. Depending on the specific requirements, you may need to submit the application in person or electronically through NEMA’s online portal.

Pay Application Fees: Pay any required application fees as specified by NEMA. Ensure that the fees are paid according to the accepted methods of payment and that proof of payment is included with the application.

Wait for Review: After submitting the application, NEMA will review the documents and assess whether the proposed waste handling activities comply with environmental regulations and standards. This process may take some time, so be prepared to wait for a response.

Comply with Requirements: If NEMA determines that the application meets the necessary requirements, they will issue the waste handling license. Ensure that you comply with any conditions or stipulations outlined in the licence, such as reporting requirements, operational standards, and environmental monitoring.

Renewal and Compliance: Keep track of the expiration date of your waste handling licence and initiate the renewal process before it expires. Additionally, maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements and standards to ensure the continued validity of your license.

Seek Assistance if Needed: If you encounter any difficulties or have questions during the application process, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from NEMA or other relevant authorities. They can provide guidance and clarification on the requirements and procedures involved in obtaining a waste handling licence in Uganda.