The National Environment Management Authority – Uganda has halted the construction of a telecommunications mast in Rugombe Village, Rugombe Town Council, over alleged environmental compliance violations.
The operation was carried out on 03 March 2026 by a joint team comprising the Uganda Environmental Police Protection Unit, the Uganda Police Force, and personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Force during routine surveillance.
Authorities said the mast, reportedly belonging to Airtel Uganda Limited, was being constructed within a densely populated residential area without obtaining the required environmental approvals.
Investigations revealed that the developer had not conducted the mandatory Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), a requirement for telecommunications infrastructure projects.
A case file has been opened against the company for alleged non-compliance with environmental regulations. Two site engineers were arrested and are currently detained at Hoima Central Police Station, and exhibits recovered from the construction site have been secured.
Authorities indicated that a restoration order will be issued, and further legal action may be taken against the developer.
NEMA reiterated that construction of telecommunications masts requires ESIA certification and urged developers to follow environmental approval procedures before commencing such projects.
