Investigation of sustainability practices among manufacturing firms in Kampala; a case of Uganda manufacturers association firms in Kampala district

Abstract

The study purposely investigated the sustainable practices applied by manufacturing firms in Kampala; a case of UMA firms in Kampala district. The study was premised on three objectives; to identify sustainability practices implemented by manufacturing firms, to analyze challenges faced by manufacturing firms in achieving sustainability and to examine strategies for enhancing sustainability practices among manufacturing firms. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study employed quantitative research approaches. Questionnaires were the main tools used in data collection. In this study, the population was comprised of staff of manufacturing firms in Kampala district. The study found Manufacturing firms demonstrate strong engagement in sustainability practices, particularly in monitoring energy consumption (mean = 4.38, SD = 1.012) and investing in research and development for sustainability (mean = 4.35, SD = 1.005). However, support for local communities through social sustainability initiatives scored lower (mean = 2.53, SD = 1.121). Challenges include adhering to environmental regulations (mean = 4.92, SD = 0.267) and balancing sustainability with competitive pricing (mean = 4.67, SD = 1.08), while maintaining commitment amid economic fluctuations received the lowest score (mean = 2.20, SD = 0.91). To improve sustainability practices, firms can focus on actively seeking renewable energy sources (mean = 4.17, SD = 0.64) and investing in R&D for sustainable products (mean = 3.87, SD = 1.13), though strategies like implementing energy-efficient technologies need more attention, as indicated by a low mean of 2.12 (SD = 0.85). The study recommends that manufacturing firms enhance social sustainability by partnering with local organizations for community support, strengthening their corporate social responsibility and brand reputation. Policymakers should simplify compliance processes for environmental regulations to reduce operational complexities. Firms are encouraged to invest in employee training on sustainability practices to foster a culture of responsibility. Additionally, increasing investments in sustainable technologies and collaborating with like-minded suppliers can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall sustainability performance. The study is limited to the manufacturing firms in Kampala district.

Keywords: Sustainable Practice, manufacturing firms