Businessman Hamis Kiggundu, alias Ham, has expressed his disappointment and sadness over the alleged mistreatment of the 100,000 royal palm trees he donated to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) in January. Hamis Kigundu’s Tree Donation Faces Sabotage. In January, during the NAM summit, prominent businessman and philanthropist Hamis Kigundu donated and planted 100,000 Royal Palm trees across various parts of Kampala. This gesture, aimed at boosting the city’s environmental conservation efforts, was widely praised and appreciated by the public.
Allegations of Sabotage
Recent allegations have emerged that some officials within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) are systematically destroying these donated trees. The accused include Isaac Mugumbure, the Head of Landscaping, and Anitah, formerly the acting Director of Physical Planning at KCCA. According to reports, these officials were displeased with Kigundu’s project, believing it undermined their own city beautification plans. They allegedly orchestrated the destruction using street sweepers, who were seen in disturbing video footage spraying the trees with poisonous liquids before uprooting them.
Public Outcry
The footage has sparked outrage among the public and environmental activists. Many are calling for immediate action to address this sabotage and hold the responsible parties accountable. A spokesperson from an environmental NGO stated, “This is not just an attack on Ham Kigundu’s generosity but also on the city’s environmental future. Such actions are unacceptable and should be thoroughly investigated.”
Official Response
KCCA has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations. However, sources within the authority indicate that an internal investigation may be underway to determine the validity of these claims and take appropriate action against those involved.
Hamis Kigundu’s Reaction
Hamis Kigundu expressed his strong displeasure with the situation on X, accompanied by several videos showing the destruction of the trees. He stated, “It is truly disheartening to witness these KCCA employees poisoning and uprooting these palm trees. Where is the patriotism? We invested significant time and resources into purchasing, donating, planting, and maintaining these royal palm trees throughout the city, all under their supervision. With such impunity going unpunished, our journey towards national development remains arduous.”
Call for Justice
As the investigation unfolds, there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability from KCCA. The public and various stakeholders are urging the authority to protect such philanthropic initiatives and ensure that those sabotaging them face strict penalties. The public eagerly awaits KCCA’s response and the outcome of the investigations to see justice served and ensure such acts of sabotage do not recur.
This troubling development highlights internal conflicts and challenges within KCCA. As Kampala grapples with these allegations, the need for unity and a collective effort towards a greener, more sustainable city remains paramount.
