At least three people died after heavy rain sent flash floods through downtown Kampala on Friday morning, submerging streets and wrecking dozens of businesses. Water raced across the central business district and the New Taxi Park, leaving traders with losses and reviving anger over construction along the Nakivubo Channel tied to businessman Hamis Kiggundu.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago said the developer worsened the drainage crisis by building without required approvals from the National Environment Management Authority or the Kampala Capital City Authority. He argued the stadium and channel project violates planning rules and has cost lives and livelihoods. He also faulted national leaders for staying silent and urged government, city officials, and trader representatives to act at once to prevent repeat disasters.
The Nakivubo Channel, once the city’s main drainage route, has been disputed as large commercial buildings rose over sections. Despite public concern, work has continued with support from President Yoweri Museveni, who has cast it as part of modernization. The Kampala City Traders Association asked the city’s executive director to halt all construction on the channel as questions over legality, environmental protection, and accountability persist.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago said the developer worsened the drainage crisis by building without required approvals from the National Environment Management Authority or the Kampala Capital City Authority. He argued the stadium and channel project violates planning rules and has cost lives and livelihoods. He also faulted national leaders for staying silent and urged government, city officials, and trader representatives to act at once to prevent repeat disasters.
The Nakivubo Channel, once the city’s main drainage route, has been disputed as large commercial buildings rose over sections. Despite public concern, work has continued with support from President Yoweri Museveni, who has cast it as part of modernization. The Kampala City Traders Association asked the city’s executive director to halt all construction on the channel as questions over legality, environmental protection, and accountability persist.
