KCCA Halts Ham Enterprises' Construction on Drainage Channel in Nakivubo

The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has ordered Ham Enterprises to immediately stop all construction activities on the Jugula drainage channel in Nakivubo, citing unauthorized works that obstruct the critical drainage system.

This directive followed a high-level meeting chaired by Acting Executive Director Frank Rusa in the Mayor’s Parlor. The meeting brought together Ham Enterprises’ Hamis Kiggundu, Central Division Mayor Salim Uhuru, Catholic Church leaders, traders from St. Balikuddembe Market (Owino), and KCCA officials to address the issue.

The discussions focused on the impact of the ongoing construction on the Jugula drainage channel, a vital component of Kampala’s stormwater management. KCCA instructed Ham Enterprises to halt all activities until a thorough technical assessment is conducted. A site visit by KCCA’s technical team is scheduled for November 20 to evaluate the drainage system's compliance with environmental and legal standards.

Rusa emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to protect public interests, stating, “Our priority is to ensure that all developments in the city conform to the law. We must prioritize the well-being of our people and the functionality of our drainage systems.”

A KCCA report highlighted that unauthorized developments had disrupted the Jugula drainage channel, causing stormwater overflows that have affected surrounding areas.

Hamis Kiggundu, humbled by the meeting’s outcome, expressed his willingness to cooperate with KCCA. “I am not above the law, which is why I came to this meeting. I am ready to listen to the technical guidance on how I can develop the place sustainably,” he stated.

Kiggundu acknowledged the flooding’s impact on residents and pledged to work with KCCA to resolve the issues, including restoring access to a nearby Catholic Church after discussions with the Archbishop of Kampala. “I’m a God-fearing man. I know the importance of the church, and I can’t block it. We are working with the church to ensure full access for the faithful, including vehicles,” he added.

KCCA reiterated its commitment to addressing illegal construction and enforcing urban planning standards as part of its broader mission to create a sustainable and resilient Kampala. All parties agreed to collaborate on finding solutions that balance urban development with effective drainage management.