Nansana Municipality integrates equity considerations into its planning and programming through inclusive policies and targeted investments. Several measures focus on improving accessibility and economic inclusion. For example, in the built environment, local building regulations require provisions for people with disabilities. In addition, the municipality has allocated a budget for road maintenance equipment to make mobility more accessible across the city. To support inclusive economic participation, Nansana has introduced affirmative action in public procurement. Contracts up to USD 2,732 are reserved for youth, women, older adults, and people with disabilities. Additionally, 30 percent of funds for municipal development projects are allocated to benefit these groups.
Equity challenges
While Nansana is taking active steps to promote inclusive development, the municipality continues to face challenges that affect the wellbeing of residents and the equitable provision of services. The following areas reflect key issues currently being addressed at the local level:
- Environmental degradation and access to clean energy
Nansana faces increasing environmental degradation, including widespread tree cutting, the use of non-biodegradable plastics, and inadequate waste disposal. These challenges are directly linked to the lack of access to clean energy. In schools, the absence of alternative cooking fuels prevents the preparation of balanced meals, contributing to malnutrition among children. The reliance on firewood for cooking places a significant burden on women, who often spend hours searching for wood. To address these challenges, youth trained through the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Fund are constructing energy-efficient stoves for use in schools and homes. The municipality is supporting the expansion of this initiative by forming household cooperatives and training additional residents in the use of biogas and solar energy.
- Gaps in education, mental health, and protection services
According to the May 2024 census data, Nansana reports that 15 080 children (aged 6–12) and 17 879 teenagers (aged 13–17) are not attending school. In parallel, 40 177 individuals aged 10 and above are considered probable psychological distress cases, and 27 977 show signs of probable depression. These figures highlight challenges in ensuring access to education and mental health support, particularly among children, youth, and adolescents. Alongside these concerns, the municipality is implementing initiatives that contribute to social support and wellbeing. These include a Skilling Centre that offers rehabilitation and counselling for survivors of domestic violence, as well as local programmes such as the Mayor’s Cup for youth and the celebration of commemorative days recognising women, older adults, and people with disabilities. Together, these activities reflect a broader commitment to supporting people in vulnerability across the municipality.
- Waste management and public health risks
Solid waste management remains a significant challenge in Nansana, particularly as rapid urban growth outpaces existing infrastructure. Unregulated dumping in public spaces and drainage channels has contributed to environmental degradation and increased exposure to sanitation-related illnesses such as typhoid and diarrhea. Waste collection capacity remains limited, and the absence of systems for separation and safe disposal further exacerbates the issue. These conditions also heighten public concerns, with residents expressing fears about disease outbreaks and the impact on everyday life, including food production and drinking water quality. Recognizing the scale of the challenge, local authorities are prioritizing the promotion of circular economy approaches and the construction of a treatment plant, while exploring digital tools to improve real-time tracking and enforcement. Strengthening waste management systems is considered critical to safeguarding public health and improving the quality of life in the municipality.
Looking ahead, Nansana Municipality is continuing to strengthen its efforts toward inclusive and sustainable urban development. Building on existing initiatives, the city is working to expand access to clean and affordable energy, improve environmental management, and enhance the delivery of education, mental health, and protection services.
