Two business groups in Kampala filed a lawsuit against developer Hamis Kiggundu on Monday, alleging his construction project near the Nakivubo Channel has caused severe flooding throughout the city's commercial district. The Kampala Arcaders Traders Association and UNATA Traders Association Uganda Limited also named the National Environment Management Authority and Kampala Capital City Authority as defendants, claiming regulators failed to properly oversee the drainage work.
The associations want judges to declare the construction by Kiggundu and his firm, Kiham Enterprises Ltd, unlawful and to issue orders halting all activity. They say the project has damaged goods and harmed businesses in more than a dozen buildings along Nabugabo Street after Kiggundu proposed covering the channel to President Yoweri Museveni in late July. Museveni approved the plan the next month, but merchants argue required environmental reviews were skipped.
City officials blamed recent flash floods on heavy rains rather than construction, though blockages were noted near the channel. Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago demanded prosecution of Kiggundu for disregarding planning regulations. The developer has not yet responded to the legal claims.
The associations want judges to declare the construction by Kiggundu and his firm, Kiham Enterprises Ltd, unlawful and to issue orders halting all activity. They say the project has damaged goods and harmed businesses in more than a dozen buildings along Nabugabo Street after Kiggundu proposed covering the channel to President Yoweri Museveni in late July. Museveni approved the plan the next month, but merchants argue required environmental reviews were skipped.
City officials blamed recent flash floods on heavy rains rather than construction, though blockages were noted near the channel. Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago demanded prosecution of Kiggundu for disregarding planning regulations. The developer has not yet responded to the legal claims.
