By KT Reporter
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has attributed the Monday flooding in downtown Kampala, which destroyed several properties and affected hundreds of traders, to the ongoing developments on the Nakivubo drainage channel.
A heavy afternoon downpour submerged several shops in downtown areas, including Nabukera, Quericel, Totala, and Sekaziga arcades in Container Village, as well as Ham Arcades and parts of the New Taxi Park. Beyond the commercial impact, the flooding also affected numerous homes in the slums of Mengo, Kisenyi, and Owino Market areas.
Ahamad Musoke, a trader at Nabukeera Arcade, reported losing a consignment of clothes valued at UGX 2 million, imported from China, after the basement of his store was flooded. Over 50 of his colleagues also suffered losses. “The rain was relentless, and the flooding was catastrophic. We’ve experienced flooding before, but this was different — the water rose so quickly that we couldn’t salvage much. It was like everything was underwater in an instant, and most of the clothes were swept away,” Musoke said.
Suzanne Tukamushaba, another trader at Qualicell Arcade dealing in women’s wear, said one of her employees was injured while trying to save merchandise from the rising waters. “My employee was injured by sharp objects, and most of our clothes are ruined beyond recovery — they’ll likely end up in the trash. I’m calling on the government to help us like they’ve assisted people in Bududa and other flood-affected areas. We need their support now,” Tukamushaba said.
Edward Ntale, Chairperson of the United Arcaders Entrepreneurs Association (UATEA), described the situation as devastating for the business community, noting that over 400 traders, shop owners, and street vendors were affected. “The truth is, most of our people will struggle to recover businesswise,” Ntale said, adding that the flooding comes at a time when many traders are already grappling with rent increases, high electricity costs, and multiple taxes.
Ntale attributed part of the problem to the ongoing construction on the Nakivubo Channel, but also blamed KCCA for failing to maintain the city’s drainage system. However, KCCA spokesperson Daniel Nuwabine told Uganda Radio Network (URN) that the severe flooding was primarily a result of the ongoing Nakivubo Channel construction works.
“We’ll get to the bottom of what led to this severe flooding and find a lasting solution,” Nuwabine said, adding that investigations would be conducted to identify clogged sections that may have worsened the situation. Nuwabine further noted that the failure of some landlords to install proper water drainage systems also contributes to flooding.
“We kindly request the public’s patience as we navigate this situation. While development can bring temporary challenges, we assure you the outcome will be worth it. In the meantime, we urge everyone to remain cautious, especially during this rainy season, to ensure safety,” he added. In August, businessman Hamis Kiggundu received government approval to modernize the Nakivubo Channel, with President Yoweri Museveni describing the proposal as “imaginative and simple.”
The project reportedly involves covering and modernizing the channel to address persistent waste disposal and flooding issues. However, it has faced resistance from street vendors and some city leaders, including Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who has described the works as illegal. Kiggundu, on his part, insists the ongoing works are part of a broader plan to modernize Kampala’s drainage system and integrate commercial infrastructure.
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