Parts of the Nakivubo Channel that have been fenced off by tycoon Kiggundu
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has directed businessman Hamis Kiggundu, through his company Kiham Enterprises Ltd, to immediately stop all unauthorized activities along Nakivubo Channel.
The directive follows concerns over ongoing works that were reportedly being carried out without statutory guidance or approvals. During a meeting between KCCA officials and Kiggundu, the authority emphasized the importance of protecting the city’s main drainage channel from blockages and unauthorized alterations.
“We instructed him to halt all activities that are ongoing without the requisite statutory guidance and permission,” KCCA wrote on X formerly Twitter after the meeting.
KCCA further tasked the developer to take responsibility for the impact of his actions. The authority noted that debris had accumulated in the channel as a result of the works, disrupting water flow and increasing the risk of flooding in parts of Kampala.
“Under the guidance and supervision of KCCA, the developer is to remove all debris in the channel as a result of his actions, ensure proper flow of storm water, and maintain the hoarded section to avoid any danger to human life and flooding in the area,” the authority directed.
The Nakivubo Channel, which runs through central Kampala and drains storm water into Lake Victoria, has long been a source of concern due to encroachment, poor waste management, and illegal developments. In recent weeks, sections of the channel were cordoned off to allow for interventions aimed at improving water flow and reducing the threat of flash floods.
KCCA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing regulations and ensuring that all city developments comply with urban planning standards. The authority also warned that any developer found to be working without approval on sensitive infrastructure such as drainage channels would be held accountable.
Earlier on, Kiggundu obtained clearance from President Museveni and asked the relevant authorities Kampala to help him to execute his ‘brilliant’ plan. This however has been heavily criticized by different leaders led by the lord mayor Erias Lukwago who called the move illegal.
This intervention comes at a time when Kampala has been experiencing heavy rains, with residents in low-lying areas such as Katwe, Kisenyi, and Clock Tower frequently reporting flash floods linked to blockages in the Nakivubo Channel.
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