President Yoweri Museveni has given Kampala businessman Hamis Kiggundu, widely known as Ham, the green light to redevelop Nakivubo Channel, one of the capital’s main drainage systems, by constructing commercial buildings above it.
The approval, communicated in a letter dated 2 August 2025 and addressed to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja with copies to several senior officials, directs government agencies to support the plan.
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Mr Museveni said the open channel encourages illegal dumping of waste, including plastics and human waste, which leads to blockages and flooding. He described Mr Kiggundu’s redevelopment proposal as “imaginative and simple,” instructing that the channel be cleaned, reinforced and covered at the businessman’s expense.
“Allow him to cover the channel after cleaning and strengthening it at his own cost. I approve of the plan. Help him to execute,” the letter reads.
Lord Mayor Opposes Project
The decision has triggered criticism from Kampala’s Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, who accused Mr Kiggundu of attempting a “midnight land grab” along the contested drainage corridor.
Mr Lukwago claimed the disputed stretch runs through several key areas of the city, including Ham Stadium, Park Yard, Kiseka Market and the New Taxi Park. He alleged that senior government officials were backing the businessman and warned that covering the drainage system could worsen flooding and undermine environmental protections.
“This is impunity at its peak,” Mr Lukwago said. “Ham appears to be protected by the powers that be and is preparing to resume works at midnight.”
Supporters vs Critics
Under the plan, Mr Kiggundu is expected to finance the works by developing shopping malls and other commercial properties over the reinforced channel. Proponents argue the redevelopment could reduce littering, modernise parts of downtown Kampala, and help address persistent flooding.
But environmentalists and urban planners have voiced concerns over the potential ecological and engineering risks. They warn that covering such a critical drainage line could obstruct water flow, increase urban flooding, and threaten surrounding communities.
Nakivubo Channel is a vital drainage artery that channels stormwater through low-lying areas before discharging into Lake Victoria. It has long been prone to blockages during heavy rainfall, often leaving parts of the city submerged.
What Next?
With presidential backing secured, Mr Kiggundu is expected to begin cleaning and reinforcing the channel before starting construction. Government ministries and agencies have been instructed to facilitate the works.
However, the redevelopment is likely to face continued public debate, legal scrutiny, and resistance from city leaders and environmental groups as construction plans move forward.
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