By Mutesi Phionah Uwase,
KAMPALA
FDC has called for urgent intervention from the government to avoid further catastrophic occurrences in Kiteezi.
John Kikonyogo, the party spokesperson emphasized that government should give a fair compensation for victims of past incidents at the landfill.
“The government must take responsibility and compensate the victims adequately, not the paltry Shs2 million initially offered. Many families are still living in fear, and they will not vacate the area until they receive what they are owed,” Kikonyogo added.
Kikonyogo was speaking to journalists at the party’s headquarters, Najjanankumbi on Monday. He said Kiteezi is only one example of a larger national crisis, calling for a long-term waste management strategy to prevent similar disasters in the future.
“We need a comprehensive plan to handle this issue properly. This is not just about Kiteezi—it’s about ensuring that no other community suffers due to government inaction,” Kikonyogo emphasized.
FDC argues that the government has been negligent in handling disasters such as the landfill collapse and the recent fire incident at Kiteezi landfill, warning that failure to contain the situation could lead to a disaster of catastrophic proportions.
“If not attended to comprehensively, this fire could lead to a volcano-like explosion. Kiteezi has been a disaster waiting to happen, and now we are seeing the consequences of poor waste management,” Kikonyogo stated.
Last week on Saturday, fire ravaged Kiteezi landfill and thick smoke was seen polluting the air and raising health concerns. However, the police fire brigade and KCCA team was able to extinguish the fire on time. Locals have complained of respiratory issues and fear that the situation could escalate if immediate action is not taken.
Environmentalists have previously warned that accumulated methane gas from decomposing waste could lead to explosive situations if not properly managed.
Despite mounting pressure, the government is yet to issue a comprehensive response on the steps being taken to address the crisis. Meanwhile, residents continue to endure hazardous conditions as they await meaningful action.
