Nakazibwe Daisy
Floods have once again wreaked havoc in Kampala, with Bwaise bearing the brunt of the devastation. Heavy rains that began in the early hours of March 26, 2025, turned roads into rivers and homes into islands, leaving residents stranded and desperate for relief. The Lubigi drainage channel overflowed, inundating the low-lying areas of Bwaise and causing widespread destruction.
According to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the floods affected over 1,200 households, destroyed property worth an estimated UGX 3 billion, and claimed six lives, including two minors. The clogged drainage channels, silted with soil and blocked by garbage, were unable to handle the heavy downpour, exacerbating the crisis.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, during her inspection of the affected areas, expressed her condolences to the victims and pledged immediate government intervention. “We cannot continue to lose lives and property every rainy season. The government is committed to improving drainage infrastructure and enforcing wetland protection laws to mitigate future disasters,” said Nabbajja.
KCCA officials echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, highlighting their new resolution to upgrade and cover open drainage channels under strict supervision. “This is a structural change that tackles the root cause of flooding. By transitioning to modern underground systems, we aim to eliminate waste dumping and ensure water flows freely even during heavy rains,” said Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, Executive Director of KCCA.
For residents like Jane Nansubuga, the floods are a recurring nightmare. “Every time it rains, we lose everything—our homes, our belongings, and sometimes even our loved ones. We need more than promises; we need action,” she lamented, standing amidst the ruins of her flooded home in Mukwaya zone.
Floods in Kampala have become a recurring challenge, particularly during heavy rains. The city’s drainage systems, often clogged with garbage and silt, struggle to handle the downpour, leading to widespread flooding. Areas like Bwaise and Kinawataka are frequently affected, with homes submerged, roads rendered impassable, and lives lost.
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has been urged to overhaul the drainage system and enforce waste management regulations to mitigate the impact. Residents continue to call for urgent action to address this persistent issue.
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