Kampala may have just taken its biggest step yet toward ending the city’s decades-long flooding crisis. On April 3rd, 2025, the Kampala Capital City Authority Council passed a groundbreaking resolution that could finally deliver the lasting solution residents have long waited for.
The new plan empowers trusted local investors to develop, cover, and upgrade the city’s open drainage channels. Crucially, all work will be done under KCCA’s strict supervision to ensure safety, quality, and public benefit.
For a city often paralysed by floods after every downpour, this is more than policy—it’s hope.
A City Held Hostage by Rain
Flooding in Kampala isn’t new. For over 40 years, rainstorms have turned roads into rivers and homes into waterlogged ruins. KCCA, the city’s managing authority since 2011, has battled this persistent problem with limited funds and endless bureaucracy.
Open drainage channels—designed to handle stormwater—are clogged with solid waste. From Kawempe to Kamwokya, and the Northern Bypass to Clock Tower, flooded streets are a regular nightmare every rainy season.
But now, that could change.
Transforming Drainage, Transforming Kampala
The new council resolution calls for a complete rethink of how the city handles stormwater. Instead of relying on outdated open channels, Kampala will shift to covered, modern underground drainage systems—developed by competent local investors and monitored closely by KCCA engineers.
This solves several problems at once. Covered drains prevent illegal dumping of solid waste, eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and drastically reduce flooding.
Kampala, long left behind by global infrastructure standards, may finally catch up with modern urban centres like Nairobi, Kigali, and beyond.
The Nakivubo Proof: A Flood-Free Future Is Possible
The model already exists. In late 2024, local tycoon Dr. Hajji Hamis Kiggundu revamped the Jugula channel near Nakivubo Stadium in preparation for AFCON 2027.
Supervised by then-Acting Executive Director Frank Nyakana Rusa, the project was a resounding success.
When heavy rains hit in March 2025, most parts of Kampala were flooded—except Nakivubo. Residents and traders praised the revamped drainage system. For many, it was the first time they’d seen a functional drainage system in the area.
This success proves that capable investors, guided by KCCA, can get the job done. The new resolution aims to replicate this model citywide.
Local Solutions, Cleaner Future
With shrinking support from the central government and international donors, this public-private partnership model is a masterstroke. It allows KCCA to close the funding gap while maintaining oversight to ensure transparency and efficiency.
Plus, the aesthetic and health benefits are significant. Covered drains mean cleaner streets, fewer disease outbreaks, and a more attractive city for both locals and visitors.
Lukwago’s Misstep: A Legacy Unravels
The council meeting wasn’t without drama. Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago found himself at the centre of controversy after launching attacks on both Kiggundu and Rusa, accusing them of causing flooding in Kampala through the Nakivubo project.
His claims didn’t hold up.
The council presented evidence that Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd. had secured official approval from KCCA back in December 2024. The KCCA magistrate court dismissed the charges in January 2025.
In response, the council rebuked Lukwago for unprofessional conduct, accusing him of hate speech and propaganda. For a man who’s held the ceremonial mayoral role for over a decade, this very public takedown could mark the end of his political relevance.
Kampala’s Turning Point
With this resolution, Kampala may finally escape the vicious cycle of flooding, economic loss, and public health risks. The blueprint is clear: replicate Nakivubo’s success, involve competent investors, and hold everyone accountable.
This isn’t just infrastructure—it’s transformation.
The contrast is clear: visionary leaders focused on progress versus political figures stuck in old rivalries. The people of Kampala are ready for change, and the KCCA Council just gave them a reason to believe it’s coming.
