Is the air quality good in Kampala?
On July 13, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time), air quality in Kampala, Uganda, is poor with an AQI of 177, which falls within the "unhealthy" range.
These conditions can cause health effects for everyone, with children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions facing the greatest risk.
Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Kampala is ranked the most polluted major city in the world on Monday morning.
Click here for a real-time air quality map of Kampala.
While the air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Kampala was 44.2 µg/m³. This corresponds to an AQI of 129, which falls into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category and was 8.8 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.
Kampala, Uganda ranked as the most polluted major city on July 13, 2026, 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.
When will air quality improve in Kampala?
Air quality is expected to improve into the moderate range by this evening.
Hourly air quality forecast for Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.
While conditions are expected to improve later today, sensitive groups should continue to monitor local air quality and limit prolonged outdoor activity if pollution remains elevated.
Air quality map of Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Kampala?
Poor air quality in Kampala is driven by a combination of transportation emissions, urban development, and other local pollution sources.
Key contributors include:
- Vehicle emissions are the largest contributor, accounting for about 60% of particulate pollution. Many imported vehicles are older, poorly maintained, and produce emissions well above modern standards (1).
- Traffic congestion, road dust from unpaved roads, and brake and tire wear further increase fine particulate pollution, particularly during busy travel periods.
- Burning of biomass, household solid fuels, and open waste burning contribute additional PM2.5 pollution across the city (2).
- Rapid urban growth, industrial activities, and limited green space in some neighborhoods also contribute to higher pollution levels (3).
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.
