Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, accompanied by members of the City Executive Committee, presented a comprehensive report on the city’s persistent flooding challenges to the council.
The report identified key factors contributing to the flooding, including the failure to construct primary and secondary drains, estimated to cost around USD 220 million, and the continued encroachment on drainage channels.
The report highlighted the urgent need for increased funding to implement the Kampala City Drainage Master Plan.
“It also recommended the demolition of structures built on drainage channels and prosecution of individuals responsible for these illegal constructions.” Stated.
Furthermore, the report emphasized the importance of preserving the Catholic Martyrs shrine at St. Balikudembe Market, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has been inaccessible due to illegal construction on the Jukula drainage channel.
To address the city’s drainage challenges, the report proposed reallocating USD 18 million from the Ministry of Kampala’s capacity-building budget towards compensating project-affected persons in the drainage corridor and supporting other drainage-related programs.
Lukwago’s report underscores the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of flooding in Kampala. The city’s rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure have exacerbated the flooding problem, affecting residents, businesses, and historic sites.
The proposed measures aim to restore the city’s drainage systems, protect its cultural heritage, and ensure a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.
