Kampala, Uganda — Intense rainfall on Monday afternoon triggered significant flooding in downtown Kampala, particularly around the ongoing Nakivubo channel construction, sparking renewed public debate over the project’s capacity to manage stormwater.
Images from the site showed the channel nearly submerged, while nearby streets were completely underwater, igniting widespread concern among residents and environmental commentators.
The Nakivubo Redevelopment Project
The Nakivubo channel, a critical nine-kilometre drainage artery, handles roughly 90% of central Kampala’s stormwater. The redevelopment, led by businessman Hamis Kiggundu (Ham), aims to clean, strengthen, and cover a large portion of the channel, with the stated goal of modernising the city and reducing open sewage hazards.
Kiggundu has defended the initiative as essential for improving sanitation and reducing public health risks.
Warnings About Covering the Channel
Despite the proposed benefits, experts and city leaders have repeatedly warned that covering the channel could worsen flooding in downtown areas. Environmentalists argue that encroaching on the channel with commercial structures risks prioritising private profit over public safety.
Key concerns include:
- Restricted stormwater flow leading to increased flood risks
- Difficulty in performing critical maintenance, like de-silting
- Historical siltation and debris accumulation, making the channel prone to blockages
Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and environmental bodies have questioned whether all statutory clearances, including a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), were obtained before construction began.
Public Reaction
The Monday flooding event has heightened scrutiny of the Nakivubo project, illustrating the very risks critics have long highlighted. Commentators emphasized that covering such a vital drainage artery without expanding its hydraulic capacity could have long-term, potentially disastrous consequences for central Kampala.
Residents and civil society groups have called for urgent review and reinforcement of stormwater management measures to prevent future flooding, particularly as heavy rains are expected during the coming months.
Do you live near the Nakivubo channel? Share your experiences with flooding and safety concerns in the comments below!
