Impact of natural ventilation on the subjective thermal comfort in low-income tropical housing

Low-income households in Uganda and similar tropical regions predominantly depend on natural ventilation for indoor thermal regulation due to limited access to and affordability of mechanical cooling systems. This study investigated the subjective thermal comfort of low-income, naturally ventilated building occupants in Kampala, Uganda through cross-sectional surveys involving 413 participants. ANOVA revealed that building orientation and window type significantly influenced subjective thermal comfort, with North- and East-facing homes providing greater comfort than those oriented South and West. Clay tile roofs offer better thermal comfort than iron sheet roofs. The findings contribute to achieving SDGs 3, 7, and 11, promoting health, energy efficiency, and resilient urban environments.