By Our Reporter,
KAMPALA
In a decisive move aimed at ending Kampala’s longstanding flood woes, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Council has approved a resolution to collaborate with competent local investors in developing, covering, and upgrading the city’s drainage channels.
The resolution, passed during a heated council session on April 3, 2025, came amid a strong rejection of recent allegations by Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago against businessman Dr. Hajji Hamis Kiggundu and former Acting Executive Director Frank Nyakana Rusa. Councilors dismissed the claims as politically motivated and legally flawed, instead recognizing Rusa with an official commendation for his exemplary leadership during his tenure.
Lukwago, known for his consistent criticism of city developers, had accused Dr. Kiggundu of illegally reconstructing the Jugula drainage channel near Nakivubo, blaming the work for the recent floods that paralyzed parts of the city. He further implicated Rusa, calling for his interdiction from the office of Director of Legal Affairs, alleging he backed the project during his time as Acting Executive Director from September to December 2024.
However, the council was unpersuaded. Members presented official records confirming that Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd owned by Dr. Kiggundu had legally submitted its construction plans to KCCA, which were reviewed and duly approved on December 9, 2024.
It was also revealed that the charges cited by Lukwago had been dismissed by the KCCA Magistrate Court on January 14, 2025. Crucially, the court found that the charges had been wrongly filed against Dr. Kiggundu personally, rather than against his company—contravening the legal principle of limited liability.
Councilors described the charges as malicious, biased, and lacking legal merit. Many criticized the Lord Mayor for pursuing personal vendettas instead of prioritizing facts and development. They emphasized that the real causes of flooding in Kampala stem from decades of neglect, improper solid waste disposal in open drains, and a lack of modern infrastructure—not the work of developers trying to offer solutions.
Ironically, while major parts of Kampala—such as Clock Tower, Kawempe, Natete, Kamwokya, Kinawataka, Forest Mall Nakawa, Zana, and the Northern Bypass—suffered heavy flooding in March, the areas around Nakivubo remained largely dry. This, the council noted, was clear evidence of the effectiveness of the Jugula channel works overseen by Ham Enterprises during Rusa’s tenure.
In recognition of his leadership, the council presented Rusa with a Certificate of Appreciation. The award, inscribed with the words “We appreciate your noble service for the Capital City (Kampala) as Acting E.D.”, was handed over to thunderous applause. Images of Rusa holding the certificate, framed by the Ugandan and KCCA flags, quickly made rounds online.
The council’s resolution signals a significant shift in KCCA’s flood management strategy. With limited central government funding and dwindling foreign aid, members unanimously agreed that working with credible local investors is the most viable path forward.
Drawing comparisons to global cities that rely on underground drainage systems, councilors called for a move away from Kampala’s outdated open channels, which are frequently clogged by waste.
Members warned against politicizing development efforts, urging all leaders to unite in advancing Kampala’s progress. They reaffirmed that KCCA’s mandate is to serve all residents impartially and effectively not to be sidetracked by personal or political agendas. The council also appealed to government agencies to support, rather than hinder, local investors capable of addressing real urban challenges.
The April 3 session made one thing clear: while Lukwago entered the chamber intent on pressing charges, he exited politically wounded his credibility shaken by a united council committed to solutions over scapegoating.
As Kampala charts a path forward, the city may finally be turning a corner guided not by finger-pointing, but by partnership, progress, and empowered local leadership.
