KAMPALA UGANDA: Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has petitioned Parliament to intervene after businessman Hamis Kiggundu cordoned off part of the Nakivubo Channel for construction, a move he describes as illegal and a matter of national importance. The controversial action has sparked public debate, with Lukwago demanding immediate intervention to protect public property.
Lukwago’s Petition and Legal Concerns
In a formal petition submitted to Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition, Lukwago expressed concern over the illegal nature of Kiggundu’s actions. The businessman reportedly blocked off the section of the Nakivubo Channel from Kisekka Market to Container Village with iron sheets, creating a barrier for construction. Lukwago claims that Kiggundu lacks any official authorization or documentation for development on this public land.
“For anyone to take possession of public property, there are procurement laws that must be followed. To carry out any development on public land, whether to obtain a leasehold or license, there must be a legal instrument to that effect,” Lukwago stated. He also confirmed that Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi verified that no approval had been granted for Kiggundu’s project.
Urgent Calls for Action
Lukwago has urged KCCA management to invoke relevant laws to halt the ongoing construction. He also took the matter further by writing to the Inspector General of Government (IGG), requesting an investigation into the alleged fraudulent actions and demanding the immediate removal of the iron sheets.
Meanwhile, Sadat Lukwago, Chairman of Muzaana Zone, which borders the Nakivubo Channel, expressed support for the redevelopment, citing potential benefits such as crime reduction and job creation for the surrounding areas.
Background of the Nakivubo Channel Dispute
This development follows KCCA’s approval in April 2025 for a private investor to manage part of the Nakivubo Channel, primarily to address the long-standing issue of flooding in the area. However, Lukwago’s petition highlights that proper legal procedures were not followed for Kiggundu’s intervention, raising serious questions about the legality of the project.
The project has been a sensitive issue, with heavy security presence from both the military and police to prevent unrest around the site. Vendors displaced by the channel’s blockage have since moved closer to the road, causing traffic congestion in downtown Kampala.
Conclusion
The ongoing controversy over the Nakivubo Channel redevelopment has drawn attention to the need for better regulation and oversight when it comes to public property and private investments in Kampala. While Kiggundu views the project as a positive contribution to the city, Lukwago and other leaders are calling for urgent legal action to ensure that proper procedures are followed. The final decision lies with Parliament, which will now review the situation and determine the next steps for KCCA and Kiggundu’s controversial project.
